Arborvitae growth rates vary dramatically between species, with some varieties adding only a few inches annually. If you are wondering how fast do arborvitae grow, the answer depends entirely on which type you plant and the conditions you provide.
Some fast-growing hybrids can shoot up 3 to 4 feet per year. Others, like the dwarf globe types, stay small and slow. This guide breaks down the numbers for every popular variety.
How Fast Do Arborvitae Grow
The short answer is that most arborvitae grow between 6 inches and 3 feet per year. But that range is too broad to be useful. You need specific numbers for specific plants.
Here is the breakdown by common species:
- Green Giant: 3 to 4 feet per year once established
- Emerald Green: 6 to 12 inches per year
- Techny (Mission): 12 to 24 inches per year
- Pyramidal: 12 to 18 inches per year
- Nigra: 12 to 24 inches per year
- Globe (dwarf): 2 to 4 inches per year
These rates assume full sun and well-drained soil. If your site is shady or soggy, expect slower growth.
Growth Rate By Specific Variety
Not all arborvitae are created equal. Here is a closer look at the most planted types and their yearly growth.
Green Giant Arborvitae
This is the speed demon of the arborvitae world. It is a hybrid of western redcedar and Japanese arborvitae.
In the first two years after planting, it focuses on root establishment. Do not panic if it seems slow. From year three onward, it can grow 3 feet or more each season.
Mature height is 50 to 60 feet. Spread is 12 to 18 feet. This is not a small hedge plant unless you prune aggressively.
Emerald Green Arborvitae
This is the most popular privacy hedge variety. It grows slowly and steadily.
Expect 6 to 12 inches of new growth per year. It reaches 12 to 15 feet tall and 3 to 4 feet wide at maturity.
The slow rate is a feature, not a bug. It keeps the plant dense and narrow. You rarely need to prune it.
Techny Arborvitae
Techny is a cold-hardy cultivar that grows faster than Emerald Green. It adds 1 to 2 feet per year.
It forms a broad pyramid shape. Mature size is 15 to 20 feet tall and 8 to 10 feet wide. It is a good choice for windbreaks in cold climates.
Pyramidal Arborvitae
This is a fast grower for a classic hedge. It puts on 12 to 18 inches per year.
It can reach 20 to 30 feet tall. The spread is 6 to 8 feet. It needs more space than Emerald Green.
Nigra Arborvitae
Nigra is another cold-hardy option. It grows 12 to 24 inches per year.
It stays dark green in winter, which is why many people choose it. Mature height is 20 to 30 feet. Spread is 6 to 10 feet.
Dwarf Globe Arborvitae
These are small shrubs, not privacy screens. They grow only 2 to 4 inches per year.
They stay under 3 feet tall. They work well in foundation plantings or rock gardens.
Factors That Affect Growth Speed
Genetics set the ceiling. Your care determines whether the plant reaches that ceiling. Here are the biggest factors.
Sunlight
Arborvitae need at least 6 hours of direct sun daily. In too much shade, they grow thin and slow.
They will not die in shade, but they will not thrive either. If you want maximum speed, plant in full sun.
Soil Quality
These plants prefer loamy, well-drained soil. Heavy clay or pure sand will slow them down.
Before planting, amend the soil with compost. This improves drainage and adds nutrients.
Watering
Consistent moisture is critical, especially in the first two years. Arborvitae do not like drought.
Water deeply once a week during dry spells. A soaker hose is better than overhead watering because it reduces fungal disease.
Fertilizer
Do not over-fertilize. Too much nitrogen can burn roots and cause weak growth.
Use a slow-release balanced fertilizer in early spring. Follow the label rates exactly.
Spacing
If you plant too close together, the trees compete for water and nutrients. Growth slows down.
For Emerald Green, space them 3 to 4 feet apart. For Green Giant, space them 8 to 10 feet apart.
Climate Zone
Most arborvitae are hardy in zones 3 to 7. Some varieties tolerate zone 8.
In hotter zones, they may struggle and grow slower. In very cold zones, winter burn can set them back.
How To Speed Up Growth
You cannot force a plant to grow faster than its genetics allow. But you can remove obstacles that slow it down.
Here is a step-by-step plan to maximize growth rate.
- Test your soil pH. Arborvitae prefer a pH between 6.0 and 7.0. Adjust if needed.
- Dig a wide hole. Make it 2 to 3 times wider than the root ball. Do not plant deeper than the root flare.
- Amend the backfill. Mix in 20% compost with the native soil.
- Mulch around the base. Use 2 to 3 inches of wood chips. Keep mulch away from the trunk.
- Water deeply. Give 1 to 2 inches of water per week during the first two seasons.
- Prune lightly. Only remove dead or damaged branches. Heavy pruning slows growth.
- Protect from deer. Deer will eat arborvitae and stunt them badly. Use fencing or repellent.
Follow this plan and your trees will hit their maximum growth potential.
Common Growth Problems
Sometimes arborvitae just stop growing. Here are the usual culprits.
Winter Burn
In cold climates, dry winter winds can brown the foliage. This kills the outer growth.
In spring, the plant has to regrow that tissue. This sets it back a full season.
Prevent this by watering well in late fall. You can also wrap the tree in burlap for winter protection.
Root Rot
Arborvitae hate wet feet. If the soil stays soggy, roots rot and the plant cannot take up water.
This looks like drought stress even when you water. The fix is to improve drainage before planting.
Bagworms
These pests can defoliate a tree completely. They are small caterpillars that spin bags on the branches.
Remove the bags by hand in late winter. Or spray with Bacillus thuringiensis in early summer.
Spider Mites
These tiny pests cause yellowing and stippling on leaves. They thrive in hot, dry conditions.
Spray the tree with a strong jet of water to knock them off. Use insecticidal soap if the infestation is severe.
Growth Expectations By Age
It helps to know what to expect at each stage of the tree’s life.
Year 1
Do not expect much top growth. The plant is putting energy into roots.
You might see only 2 to 4 inches of new growth. This is normal and healthy.
Years 2 To 3
This is when fast growers take off. Green Giant can add 2 feet in year two and 3 feet in year three.
Slower varieties like Emerald Green will add 6 to 8 inches per year.
Years 4 To 10
This is the peak growth period. Most arborvitae reach their mature height by year 10 to 15.
Green Giant can hit 30 feet by year 10. Emerald Green will be around 10 to 12 feet.
Maturity
Once mature, growth slows significantly. The plant focuses on maintaining its size.
You may see only a few inches of new growth per year. This is fine.
Arborvitae Vs Other Privacy Trees
If speed is your main concern, compare arborvitae to other options.
- Leyland Cypress: Grows 3 to 4 feet per year. But it is less cold-hardy.
- Italian Cypress: Grows 2 to 3 feet per year. Narrow but not as dense.
- Eastern White Pine: Grows 2 to 3 feet per year. Loses needles in winter.
- Privet Hedge: Grows 2 to 3 feet per year. Deciduous, so no winter privacy.
Arborvitae are the best evergreen choice for most climates. They are dense, cold-hardy, and low-maintenance.
How To Measure Growth
If you want to track your tree’s progress, here is a simple method.
- Pick a branch near the top of the tree.
- Mark it with a small piece of tape or string.
- Measure the distance from the mark to the tip of the branch.
- Repeat this in the same season next year.
- Subtract the first measurement from the second.
This gives you the annual growth for that branch. Do this on several branches and average the results.
Alternatively, measure the total tree height each year. Use a measuring pole or a laser distance tool.
When To Plant For Fastest Growth
Timing matters. Planting at the right time gives the tree a full season to establish.
Spring Planting
This is the best time for most climates. The soil is warming up, and rain is usually plentiful.
Plant in early spring before new growth starts. This gives the roots time to establish before summer heat.
Fall Planting
Fall is also good, especially in mild climates. The cool weather reduces transplant shock.
Plant at least 6 weeks before the ground freezes. This allows roots to grow before winter.
Summer Planting
Avoid summer planting if possible. The heat and dry conditions stress the tree.
If you must plant in summer, water very frequently. You may need to water every other day.
Final Thoughts On Growth Speed
Now you know the answer to how fast arborvitae grow. It ranges from a few inches to several feet per year.
Choose the right variety for your needs. Green Giant for fast screening. Emerald Green for a tidy, narrow hedge. Techny for cold climates.
Provide full sun, good soil, and consistent water. Your arborvitae will reward you with steady, healthy growth.
Do not rush the process. A well-established tree is worth the wait. With proper care, your arborvitae will thrive for decades.
Frequently Asked Questions
What Is The Fastest Growing Arborvitae?
The Green Giant arborvitae is the fastest. It can grow 3 to 4 feet per year once established. It reaches 50 to 60 feet tall at maturity.
How Tall Do Arborvitae Grow In 5 Years?
Emerald Green will be about 4 to 5 feet tall. Green Giant can be 10 to 15 feet tall in the same period. Growth depends on variety and care.
Do Arborvitae Grow Faster In Sun Or Shade?
They grow much faster in full sun. At least 6 hours of direct sun is needed for optimal growth. Shade makes them thin and slow.
Can I Make My Arborvitae Grow Faster?
Yes, by providing ideal conditions. Ensure full sun, well-drained soil, consistent water, and proper spacing. Avoid over-fertilizing and heavy pruning.
How Long Does It Take For Arborvitae To Reach Full Height?
Most varieties reach maturity in 10 to 15 years. Fast growers like Green Giant can reach 30 feet in 10 years. Slower types take longer.
Arborvitae are a long-term investment. With the right variety and care, they will provide privacy and beauty for generations.