The Little Giant Arborvitae (Thuja occidentalis ‘Little Giant’) is a versatile evergreen shrub known for its compact size, attractive foliage, and low maintenance. These qualities make it a favored choice for year-round beauty in many landscape designs.
Key Features for Landscaping
The Little Giant Arborvitae is a dwarf conifer, reaching a mature height and spread of approximately 3 to 5 feet. It naturally develops a dense, globe-shaped form, maintaining a tidy appearance with minimal pruning. Its foliage is a rich, deep green, composed of soft, lacy, fan-shaped sprays that retain their color consistently throughout the year, without significant winter bronzing. Its slow growth rate means it will not quickly outgrow its designated space, contributing to its low-maintenance appeal. It is hardy in USDA Hardiness Zones 3 through 8 and tolerates various soil conditions, including periodically wet areas, and is salt tolerant.
Designing with Little Giant Arborvitae
The Little Giant Arborvitae’s compact, rounded form makes it suitable for many landscaping uses. It defines garden beds or walkways, creating neat, low evergreen hedges. Planting shrubs 2 to 4 feet apart allows for distinct separation or a continuous appearance.
This arborvitae is ideal for foundation plantings, providing consistent green color without overwhelming structures. Its dense foliage offers year-round visual interest as an accent plant in mixed borders, rock gardens, or smaller garden areas. It also performs well in containers for patios or entryways. Grouping multiple plants can create mass appeal, adding a uniform green presence.
Planting Little Giant Arborvitae
Little Giant Arborvitae thrives in full sun, requiring at least six hours of direct sunlight daily, though it tolerates some light afternoon shade, especially in hotter climates. It prefers well-draining soil rich in organic matter and tolerates a range of soil pH.
When planting, dig a hole twice as wide as the root ball but only as deep. This allows roots to spread easily without the plant settling too deeply. Place the plant so the top of the root ball is level with the surrounding soil.
Backfill with a mixture of excavated soil and compost, then gently firm the soil to remove air pockets. After planting, water thoroughly to settle the soil. The best time for planting is typically spring or fall.
Ongoing Care and Maintenance
Once established, Little Giant Arborvitae requires moderate watering. Water thoroughly when the top 2-3 inches of soil feel dry, keeping the soil consistently moist but not waterlogged. Young plants need more frequent watering to establish a robust root system.
Apply an evergreen fertilizer in early spring to support vigorous growth. Alternatively, top-dress with compost every other year for soil improvement and nutrients.
Pruning needs are minimal as it naturally maintains its globe shape. Light trimming for tidiness or to remove dead branches can be done in late spring or early summer.
Apply a 2 to 3-inch layer of mulch around the base to conserve soil moisture, regulate temperature, and suppress weeds. In colder climates, a sheltered spot away from harsh winter winds offers protection.
Addressing Common Issues
While generally robust, Little Giant Arborvitae can face issues. Browning or needle drop is caused by winter desiccation (dry winds, frozen ground) leading to leaf scorch. Inadequate watering, especially for new plants or during dry periods, also contributes to browning. Consistent moisture and winter protection like burlap in exposed locations help prevent this.
Overwatering or poor drainage can lead to root rot, causing foliage browning and decline. Common pests include spider mites and bagworms, which can damage foliage. Pest management often involves horticultural oil or manual removal.
Proper cultural practices, like appropriate watering and well-drained soil, mitigate many issues. If poor growth is observed, assessing light conditions, soil quality, and watering practices help identify and remedy the cause.