Can You Plant Arborvitae Where Pine Trees Used to Be?

Planting arborvitae where pine trees used to be is perfectly possible if the location meets the growth requirements of this evergreen shrub. Arborvitae is a hardy shrub that grows well in a variety of soil types and light conditions, making it a popular choice for landscaping and privacy screening. However, before planting, several factors need to be considered to ensure the long-term health and growth of the arborvitae.

Factors to Consider Before Planting Arborvitae

The first factor to consider is the acidity of the soil. Pine trees are known to be acidic, leaving behind a soil that may not be suitable for all plant species. If the soil pH is too low, it may be necessary to amend the soil with lime or other soil amendments to raise the pH level to a range of 6.0-7.5. This range is considered ideal for arborvitae to grow and thrive.

Another factor to consider is the amount of sunlight the arborvitae will receive. Pine trees grow tall, casting a lot of shade, whereas arborvitae prefers full sun or partial shade. If the area where the pine tree was located receives minimal sunlight, planting arborvitae could result in stunted growth and poor health. It is important to select a location that gets a minimum of 6 hours of sunlight per day.

The presence of residual pine tree roots in the planting area should also be considered. Pine roots can decompose slowly and may take up to 5 years to fully decompose. Roots left in the soil can restrict the growth of neighboring plants or create air pockets that can be harmful to the new plant's roots. When planting arborvitae, it is best to remove as many pine roots as possible or plant in another location altogether.

Preparing the Site for Arborvitae Planting

Before planting the arborvitae, it is essential to prepare the site thoroughly. Begin by removing the remaining pine tree stump and roots, and clear the area of any debris, rocks or other materials. Once the site is clear, loosen the soil to a depth of at least 12 inches, and mix in any necessary soil amendments to adjust the pH level as needed.Next, dig a planting hole that is twice the width of the arborvitae root ball and slightly shallower than the tree's height. Position the root ball in the hole and gently backfill with soil, ensuring that the top of the root ball is level with the surrounding soil.

Caring for Newly Planted Arborvitae Trees

To ensure the long-term health and growth of the newly planted arborvitae, several care practices should be followed. After planting, water the tree deeply and regularly until the roots become well-established. This may take several months, depending on the weather and soil conditions. Once the tree is established, water only when the soil is dry to a depth of 2-3 inches.

Feeding the arborvitae with fertilizer will aid in growth and promote healthy foliage. Apply a slow-release, balanced fertilizer in early spring and again in early fall, following the manufacturer's recommended rates. Mulching around the base of the tree will help retain moisture, suppress weeds, and protect the roots from extreme temperatures.

Pruning the arborvitae is typically not necessary but can be done if necessary to maintain the desired shape or size. Avoid pruning during the cold winter months, as this can damage the tree.

Conclusion

Planting arborvitae where pine trees were once located is possible with a little planning, preparation, and care. Ensure the soil pH is within the ideal range, and the planting site receives adequate sunlight. Prepare the site by removing any residual roots or debris and backfill with amended soil. Once planted, follow proper care practices, including regular watering, fertilizing, and mulching, to promote a healthy and thriving arborvitae tree.