Fluffy Arborvitae: A Complete Guide to Growing and Caring for These Beautiful Shrubs

If you're looking for an elegant and easy-to-care-for shrub, the fluffy arborvitae might be just what you need. These evergreens are known for their soft, feathery foliage and graceful shape, making them a popular choice for many landscapes.

But what exactly is a fluffy arborvitae? Where do they come from, and how can you grow them successfully? In this guide, we'll answer all your questions about these beautiful shrubs and give you some tips on how to keep them healthy and happy in your garden.

What is a Fluffy Arborvitae?

Fluffy arborvitae (Thuja occidentalis 'Smaragd') is a cultivar of the eastern white cedar, a native tree of North America. This variety of arborvitae is prized for its dense, compact growth habit and soft, bright green foliage, which turns bronze or brownish-green in winter.

The name "fluffy" comes from the plant's feathery texture, which is especially pronounced when the branches are young. As the shrub matures, the foliage becomes more dense and compact, but it still retains its soft appearance.

Where Do Fluffy Arborvitae Grow Best?

Fluffy arborvitae grows best in USDA hardiness zones 3-8, although it can tolerate some heat and drought once established. These plants prefer full sun to partial shade and well-drained soil, but they can adapt to a range of growing conditions.

In the wild, arborvitae often grows in moist, swampy areas, but it can also thrive in drier soils as long as it receives adequate water. If you live in a hot, dry climate, make sure to water your arborvitae regularly during the growing season to keep it hydrated.

How Do You Plant Fluffy Arborvitae?

Planting fluffy arborvitae is relatively easy, but there are a few things you should keep in mind.

First, choose a location that receives full sun to partial shade and has well-drained soil. If your soil is heavy or compacted, amend it with compost or other organic matter to improve drainage and fertility.

Dig a hole that's slightly larger than the root ball of your arborvitae, and place the plant in the hole so that the top of the root ball is level with the surrounding soil. Backfill the hole with soil and water thoroughly to settle the roots.

After planting, mulch around the base of the shrub to help retain moisture and suppress weeds. Water your arborvitae regularly during the first year, especially during dry spells, to help it establish a strong root system.

How Do You Care for Fluffy Arborvitae?

Fluffy arborvitae is generally low-maintenance, but there are a few things you can do to keep it healthy and looking its best.

Water: Water your arborvitae deeply and regularly during the growing season, especially during periods of drought. Make sure the soil stays evenly moist, but avoid overwatering, which can lead to root rot.

Fertilizer: Arborvitae doesn't need a lot of fertilizer, but you can apply a slow-release, balanced fertilizer in early spring to promote healthy growth. Avoid fertilizing late in the season, as this can encourage new growth that may not have time to harden off before winter.

Pruning: Prune your arborvitae in early spring to remove any dead or damaged branches and shape the shrub as desired. Avoid pruning too heavily, as this can damage the plant and reduce its overall vigor.

Pests and Diseases: Fluffy arborvitae is generally resistant to pests and diseases, but it can be susceptible to spider mites, bagworms, and other insects. Keep an eye out for signs of infestation, such as yellowing or browning foliage, and treat as necessary with insecticidal soap or other appropriate measures.

How Big Does Fluffy Arborvitae Get?

Fluffy arborvitae typically grows to a height of 8-12 feet and a width of 3-4 feet. However, its ultimate size will depend on growing conditions, pruning habits, and other factors.

If you want to keep your arborvitae smaller, you can prune it regularly to maintain its shape and size. However, if you let it grow naturally, it will eventually reach its full mature size and may even exceed it in ideal conditions.

Can You Grow Fluffy Arborvitae in Containers?

Yes, you can grow fluffy arborvitae in containers, although you'll need to choose a large pot that can accommodate the plant's mature size. Make sure the container has drainage holes to prevent water from accumulating around the roots, which can cause root rot.

Use a high-quality potting mix that's rich in organic matter and provides good drainage. Water your arborvitae regularly, but make sure the soil doesn't become waterlogged.

Keep in mind that arborvitae grown in containers may be more susceptible to cold damage in winter, so you may need to move them indoors or provide extra insulation during extreme weather.

Are Fluffy Arborvitae Deer-Resistant?

Fluffy arborvitae is generally considered deer-resistant, although hungry deer will eat almost anything if they're hungry enough. If you have a deer problem in your area, you may want to protect your arborvitae with fencing or other deterrents.

How Do You Propagate Fluffy Arborvitae?

You can propagate fluffy arborvitae from cuttings or by layering. To propagate from cuttings, take a 4-6" stem cutting from a healthy plant in late spring or early summer. Remove the lower leaves, dip the cut end in rooting hormone, and plant the cutting in a pot filled with moist potting soil. Keep the soil evenly moist and place the pot in a bright, sheltered location. In a few weeks, the cutting should develop roots and can be transplanted to its permanent location.

To propagate by layering, bend a low branch of the arborvitae down to the ground and cover it with soil. Leave the tip of the branch exposed above the soil. Over time, the branch will develop roots and can be separated from the parent plant.

Can You Use Fluffy Arborvitae as a Privacy Screen?

Yes, fluffy arborvitae is an excellent choice for a privacy screen or hedge. Its dense, compact growth habit and feathery foliage make it ideal for creating a barrier between your property and your neighbors'.

Plant your arborvitae in a row with about 3-4 feet between each plant, depending on how quickly you want the hedge to fill in. Prune it regularly to maintain its shape and size, and enjoy your new natural privacy screen!

Why Do Fluffy Arborvitae Turn Brown?

Fluffy arborvitae can turn brown for a variety of reasons, including drought, insect infestation, disease, and cold damage. If your arborvitae is turning brown, inspect it closely for signs of stress or damage, such as yellowing or wilting foliage or damaged bark.

If you suspect an insect or disease problem, treat your arborvitae promptly with appropriate measures. If the problem is related to environmental factors, such as drought or cold damage, take steps to improve growing conditions and protect your plant from further stress.

How Do You Winterize Fluffy Arborvitae?

Fluffy arborvitae is generally hardy in winter, but it can be susceptible to damage from snow and ice. To protect your arborvitae from winter weather, follow these tips:

• Water your arborvitae deeply before the ground freezes to help it stay hydrated through the winter.
• Mulch around the base of the shrub with a layer of organic matter, such as leaves or straw, to insulate the roots and protect them from freezing temperatures.
• Wrap the shrub with burlap or other protective material to shield it from wind, snow, and ice. Make sure the wrapping is loose enough to allow air circulation, but snug enough to prevent damage from heavy snow or ice buildup.

Fluffy arborvitae is a beautiful and versatile shrub that can add texture, color, and privacy to any landscape. By choosing the right growing conditions and providing proper care, you can enjoy the soft, feathery foliage of this elegant evergreen for years to come.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q1: How fast do fluffy arborvitae grow?

A1: Fluffy arborvitae grows at a moderate rate, typically adding 6-12 inches of height per year.

Q2: Can you prune fluffy arborvitae into different shapes?

A2: Yes, you can prune fluffy arborvitae into a variety of shapes, including cones, pyramids, and spheres.

Q3: Are fluffy arborvitae toxic to pets or humans?

A3: Fluffy arborvitae is not considered toxic to humans or pets, although ingesting large quantities of the foliage could cause stomach upset.

Q4: How often should you fertilize fluffy arborvitae?

A4: Fluffy arborvitae doesn't need a lot of fertilizer, but you can apply a slow-release, balanced fertilizer in early spring to promote healthy growth.

Q5: Can you grow fluffy arborvitae from seed?

A5: Yes, you can grow fluffy arborvitae from seed, but it can be a slow and unpredictable process. Propagation by cuttings or layering is generally more reliable.

Q6: Do fluffy arborvitae attract birds or wildlife?

A6: Fluffy arborvitae can provide shelter and nesting sites for birds, especially if grown as part of a mixed border or hedge.

Q7: How do you prevent bagworms on fluffy arborvitae?

A7: To prevent bagworms on fluffy arborvitae, inspect your plants regularly for signs of infestation and treat promptly with insecticidal soap or other appropriate measures.

Q8: How do you transplant fluffy arborvitae?

A8: To transplant fluffy arborvitae, dig a wide hole around the plant and carefully lift it from the ground, taking care not to damage the roots. Place the plant in its new location, backfill the hole with soil, and water thoroughly.

Q9: Can you grow fluffy arborvitae in sandy soil?

A9: Yes, fluffy arborvitae can grow in sandy soil as long as it receives adequate water and nutrients.

Q10: How do you know when to prune fluffy arborvitae?

A10: Prune fluffy arborvitae in early spring before new growth begins. Remove any dead or damaged branches and shape the shrub as desired.