How to Plant Arborvitae in Pot

Arborvitae, also known as Northern White Cedar or Thuja, is a popular evergreen tree that looks beautiful in any landscape. It is easy to grow and requires very little maintenance, which makes it an ideal choice for gardeners who want to add some greenery to their homes. However, if you have limited space or live in an apartment, planting arborvitae in pots can be a great way to enjoy this stunning tree. In this post, we will take you through the steps of how to plant arborvitae in pots.

What You'll Need

Before you start planting arborvitae in pots, it's important to gather all the necessary tools and materials. Here's a list of what you'll need:

A large pot

Well-draining soil mix

Arborvitae seedlings

Fertilizer

Watering can

Gardening gloves

Gardening trowel

Steps to Plant Arborvitae in Pot

Step 1: Choose a Large Pot

Arborvitae trees can grow quite large, so it's important to choose a pot that's big enough to accommodate their growth. Ideally, you should choose a pot that's at least 24 inches deep and 18 inches wide. Make sure the pot has drainage holes at the bottom to prevent waterlogging, which can damage the roots of the tree.

Step 2: Fill the Pot with Soil

Fill the pot with well-draining soil mix up to about two-thirds of its depth. Make sure the soil is loose and not compacted, as compacted soil can make it difficult for the roots to grow.

Step 3: Add Fertilizer

Add a slow-release fertilizer to the soil mix according to the instructions on the package. Mix the fertilizer well with the soil.

Step 4: Plant the Arborvitae

Now it's time to plant the arborvitae seedling. Gently remove the seedling from the container it came in, being careful not to damage the roots. Place the seedling in the center of the pot and fill the remaining space with soil mix. Press the soil gently around the base of the plant to remove any air pockets.

Step 5: Water the Plant

Water the plant thoroughly with a watering can until the soil is moist. Make sure not to overwater, as arborvitae trees can be sensitive to waterlogging. Allow the top inch of soil to dry out before watering again.

Step 6: Place the Pot in the Right Location

Arborvitae trees need plenty of sunlight to grow, so it's important to place the pot in a sunny spot. Direct sunlight for at least six hours a day is preferred. If you live in an area with harsh summers, you can move the pot to a partially shaded area during the hottest part of the day.

Step 7: Maintain the Arborvitae

Arborvitae trees are low-maintenance, but they do need some care to thrive. Water the plant regularly and make sure the soil is never completely dry. In the spring, add some slow-release fertilizer to the soil to provide the tree with nutrients. Prune the tree as necessary to maintain its shape and remove any dead or diseased branches.

Conclusion

Planting arborvitae in pots can be a great way to add some greenery to your home, even if you have limited space. By following these simple steps, you can easily grow a beautiful arborvitae tree in a pot that will add beauty to your home for many years to come.