The North Pole Arborvitae (Thuja occidentalis ‘Art Boe’) is a popular evergreen, valued for its distinct narrow, upright habit and its ability to maintain lush green foliage year-round. Its structured appearance makes it a favored choice for various landscape designs.
North Pole Arborvitae’s Growth Characteristics
The North Pole Arborvitae exhibits a moderate growth rate, typically adding 1 to 2 feet of height per year under optimal conditions. At full maturity, this columnar evergreen generally attains a height of 10 to 15 feet. Its narrow form is a defining characteristic, with a mature spread ranging from 3 to 5 feet wide, making it suitable for compact spaces.
Factors Affecting Growth
Several factors influence the North Pole Arborvitae’s growth rate and overall health. The plant thrives in full sun, requiring at least six hours of direct sunlight daily. While it can tolerate partial shade, ample sunlight leads to denser foliage and more vigorous growth.
Soil conditions are important for optimal development. This arborvitae prefers moist, well-drained soil and does not tolerate overly wet conditions or standing water, which can lead to root issues. It adapts to a range of soil types, including clay, loam, and sand, provided there is good drainage. Consistent watering is especially important for young plants to establish a robust root system.
Nutrient availability in the soil supports healthy growth, though the North Pole Arborvitae has low fertilizer requirements. Soil fertility can be enhanced with organic matter, and the plant is hardy in USDA Zones 3 through 8, tolerating cold winters and a range of temperatures.
Care Practices for Optimal Growth
Proper care practices are important from the time of planting to encourage healthy growth. When establishing new plants, water deeply and regularly during the first growing season to promote a deep, extensive root system. Once established, plants can tolerate some dry spells but benefit from watering during prolonged periods without rain. Checking soil moisture by hand, about 3 inches deep, helps determine watering needs.
Applying a layer of mulch around the base of the plant helps retain soil moisture, regulate soil temperature, and suppress weeds. It is important to keep mulch a few inches away from the trunk to prevent moisture buildup and potential issues. Fertilization with a general-purpose or slow-release fertilizer in early spring, before new growth appears, can support development.
The North Pole Arborvitae is considered low-maintenance regarding pruning. While extensive pruning is not required, light shaping can be done in early spring or summer to maintain its desired form. Avoiding heavy pruning, especially into old wood, helps prevent damage and encourages healthy new growth.
Mature Form and Landscaping Applications
At maturity, the North Pole Arborvitae maintains its narrow, upright, and dense columnar habit. Its rich, dark green foliage remains vibrant throughout the year, resisting winter burn even in cold climates. This consistent color and compact form create a structured and elegant presence in the landscape.
The mature size and growth habit of this arborvitae make it suitable for specific landscaping purposes. It excels as a privacy screen or hedge in tight spaces where a wide plant would be unsuitable. Its vertical accent also makes it an excellent choice for foundation plantings, defining corners, or as a specimen plant in mixed borders. The North Pole Arborvitae can create living fence posts or act as a windbreak, providing year-round visual interest and practical benefits.