Lawn Guardian

Emerald Green Arborvitae Care Guide

Thuja occidentalis 'Smaragd'

evergreenZones 3–7

Compact, narrow pyramidal arborvitae maintaining bright emerald green color year-round. Slower growing than Green Giant but ideal for tighter spaces and formal accents.

At a glance

Season-by-season care

Spring

Remove winter ties Early spring

If wrapped or tied for winter snow protection, remove in early spring.

Check for deer damage Early spring

Deer heavily browse arborvitae in winter. Assess damage and prune as needed.

Summer

Light shearing if needed After spring growth hardens

A light trim of new growth maintains a tight formal shape.

Fall

Apply deer repellent Late fall

Spray with deer repellent before winter when browse pressure is highest.

Tie up for snow protection Late fall

Wrap loosely with burlap or tie with soft rope in snow-heavy areas.

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Related plants

Sources: Purdue University Turfgrass Science: Use Growing Degree Days to Better Time Your Applications · University of Missouri Extension: Cool-Season Grasses: Lawn Maintenance Calendar · University of Minnesota Extension: Pre-emergent Herbicides for Crabgrass Control in Lawns