The ‘Full Speed a Hedge® ‘Thin Man’ Arborvitae’ (Thuja occidentalis ‘SMTOTM’) is an evergreen cultivar known for its narrow, columnar form. It provides dense, year-round privacy, making it ideal for screens and hedges in limited spaces.
Key Characteristics of ‘Thin Man’ Arborvitae
This arborvitae is known for its tall, slender growth, reaching 12 to 15 feet high with a narrow spread of 3 to 5 feet. Its columnar shape is ideal for limited spaces. It grows quickly, typically adding 1 to 2 feet annually, allowing for rapid privacy screen establishment.
The foliage is vibrant dark green, with dense, scale-like sprays that retain color year-round. ‘Thin Man’ Arborvitae is hardy in USDA Zones 3 through 8. It also resists common arborvitae issues, contributing to its low-maintenance nature.
Planting Your ‘Thin Man’ Arborvitae
For successful planting, ‘Thin Man’ Arborvitae prefers full sun exposure, meaning at least six hours of direct sunlight daily. While it tolerates partial shade, growth may be less dense. Well-draining soil is important, though it adapts to various soil types, including sandy, loamy, or clay.
Prepare the planting area by digging a hole two to three times wider than the root ball, but only as deep. If soil is heavy clay or poor, amend it with about one-third aged compost or manure to improve drainage and nutrients.
Position the plant so the top of the root ball is level with or slightly above the soil line for proper drainage. Backfill the hole, gently tamping to remove air pockets, then water thoroughly to settle the soil. For a dense privacy hedge, space plants 2.5 to 3 feet apart on center.
Ongoing Care for ‘Thin Man’ Arborvitae
Consistent watering is important, especially during the first year of establishment. Newly planted arborvitae require regular deep watering, typically once a week, keeping the soil moist but not waterlogged. Check soil moisture by inserting a finger 3-4 inches deep; if dry, water. Once established, ‘Thin Man’ Arborvitae tolerates drought well, but supplemental watering during prolonged dry periods or extreme heat benefits its health.
Fertilization is generally minimal. If desired, apply a slow-release granular fertilizer for trees and shrubs in early spring, following product instructions. A balanced, nitrogen-rich blend like 10-4-4 or 10-10-10 promotes healthy foliage. Pruning is rarely needed to maintain its narrow, columnar shape; however, light trimming can be done in early spring to shape or remove dead branches. Avoid cutting into old wood lacking green foliage, as it may not regenerate.
Design and Placement with ‘Thin Man’ Arborvitae
The ‘Thin Man’ Arborvitae is well-suited for privacy screens and property line definitions due to its upright, slender form. Its narrow habit makes it an excellent choice for smaller gardens or tight spaces. It also functions as a vertical accent, adding architectural interest.
It integrates well into formal garden designs, contributing a refined, columnar presence. For companion plantings, choose plants that complement its dense, green foliage and thrive in similar conditions. Ornamental grasses, flowering shrubs like hydrangeas, or smaller deciduous trees such as redbuds can provide textural contrast and seasonal color against its consistent evergreen backdrop.