Thuja (arborvitae)

The Thuja (Arborvitae) is perfect for creating a dense, evergreen hedge that provides year-round privacy in the garden. Thanks to its fast growth and strong, compact structure, this conifer hedge forms a reliable boundary. Below you can explore all Thuja hedge varieties from Heijnen, carefully selected by our plant experts.

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The Thuja hedge, also known as Arborvitae, is an evergreen conifer that is often used as a hedge in gardens. This plant, belonging to the Cupressaceae family, is known by many names such as hedge conifer, Thuja conifer, or green screen. The Thuja conifer hedge originates from North America and East Asia but has now become popular in many parts of the world as a hedge plant. This conifer is ideal as a fast-growing hedge and provides a natural solution for wind protection and garden privacy. A Thuja hedge also offers shelter and nesting sites for birds and plays a role in air purification. The etymology of ‘Arborvitae’ (Tree of Life) comes from the Ancient Greek word 'thuia', meaning incense wood, which was once used in ritual fires as a symbol of sacrifice and eternal remembrance. The Arborvitae is evergreen and tolerates pruning very well, making it an excellent hedge plant. The Tree of Life grows at a moderate to fast rate, allowing you to quickly create a dense hedge with Thuja plants. Moreover, this hedge tolerates both wind and cold exceptionally well and has a long lifespan, making Thuja an attractive choice to buy for the garden.

The main plant characteristics of the Thuja hedge conifer

Our nursery plants thousands of Thujas each year. The Thuja (Arborvitae) is a popular plant and also one of the best-selling hedges at Heijnen. This is largely thanks to its dense structure and evergreen branches. Thuja hedge plants grow at a moderate to fast rate and tolerate pruning extremely well. This hedge conifer has fan-shaped twigs and scale-like leaves (flattened foliage arranged in layers) with a distinctive resinous fragrance. A Thuja hedge is a popular choice for gardens because of its attractive leaf shapes and colours. The colour is usually dark green, providing a fresh appearance all year round; however, Heijnen also offers Thujas with a more yellowish foliage. The Arborvitae does not shed its leaves and shows hardly any discolouration in winter, which makes the Thuja hedge an excellent choice for an evergreen garden. All of this makes it a low-maintenance plant that provides ornamental value throughout the year. Its strong structure makes the plant highly suitable for privacy and wind protection. In addition, a Thuja hedge offers shelter for birds, which has a positive effect on garden biodiversity. The (almost inconspicuous) cones are small and woody, while the bark has a fibrous, reddish-brown appearance. The Thuja is not known for having a strong scent, but its stems and leaves do contribute to the garden’s fragrance, especially during pruning.

Thujas can vary in height from 2 up to 20 metres (unpruned), depending on the specific species, site choice, and soil type. When pruned, Thujas can be maintained at any desired height. The plant experts at Heijnen have selected on this page the best Thuja hedge plants, suitable for hedges several metres tall.
In March and April, the Thuja produces inconspicuous yellow-green catkin-like flower clusters in a cone shape. The care and age of this hedge conifer determine its growth, as do soil structure and fertility. The winter hardiness of a Thuja hedge is remarkable. This plant can tolerate temperatures from -34°C to -23°C and falls within USDA hardiness zones 4 to 6. This makes Thuja suitable for cold winter conditions. It is important to pay attention to soil conditions; well-drained soil is essential to prevent damage from excessive moisture. Arborvitae does not tolerate ‘wet feet’. Thuja also has good heat resistance, but drought can become an issue if the plant does not receive sufficient and timely watering, especially during prolonged heat. A deep root system of a Thuja hedge helps with this, as does the protective waxy coating on the leaves, which reduces moisture loss. A Thuja hedge is generally safe for children and pets, although ingestion of the bark may cause mild poisoning. Always exercise caution with small children and pets.

Uses of Thuja hedges in the garden

Thanks to the favourable characteristics of Thuja, this hedge plant can be used in various ways. Although most Heijnen customers use Thuja as a conifer hedge, there are several other applications possible. The hedge specialists at Heijnen have listed the main garden uses below:

A Thuja hedge is ideal as an evergreen hedge for medium to tall hedges, providing privacy throughout the year.
Thuja can be used as a windbreak to reduce strong winds in the garden and create a sheltered space.
In shrub form, Thuja can be planted as a solitary specimen for a striking focal point in the garden.
Thanks to the dense branching of Arborvitae, it can be used to hide objects such as a wall or wheelie bin, while also reducing noise from traffic or neighbours.
Thuja tolerates pruning well, making it highly suitable for topiary and shaping.
In addition to creating a conifer hedge, Thuja can also be used to form blocks or ‘Thuja clouds’. This also provides shelter and nesting places for birds and small garden animals.
A Thuja conifer hedge is also very suitable as background planting for flowering shrubs and perennials.

Combining Thuja hedges (Arborvitae) with other garden plants

A Thuja hedge is very easy to combine with other garden plants. Thuja can be effortlessly paired with other hedge plants such as Yew (Taxus), Holly (Ilex) or Cherry Laurel (Prunus). Since Arborvitae is most often used as a hedge and is an evergreen hedge, it also makes the perfect background planting. Thuja looks particularly attractive when combined with shrubs, flowering perennials, and ornamental grasses. The plant experts at Heijnen recommend combining Thuja in a border with Hydrangea, Dogwood (Cornus), or Maple (Acer) for structure, and with Coneflower (Echinacea), Verbena, Salvia, or Yarrow (Achillea) for colour and blooms. These flowers bring life into the garden by attracting butterflies, bees, and bumblebees. Based on our experience, we also recommend combinations with tall ornamental grasses such as Miscanthus or Switchgrass (Panicum), which look stunning alongside an Arborvitae hedge.

Location and soil requirements for a Thuja conifer hedge

A Thuja hedge grows best in full sun to partial shade. The hedge should receive at least 4 to 6 hours of sunlight per day. Too much shade can hinder the growth of the Thuja conifer hedge. Thuja is not particularly sensitive to wind, although (extremely) strong winds may cause damage. It grows well in neutral to chalky loamy soil. It is important that the soil is well-drained and retains moderate moisture. Good drainage prevents ‘wet feet’, which Thuja hedges do not tolerate well. Regular fertilisation in spring and summer improves the growth of the Thuja conifer. The soil should remain moist, especially during summer. Wind and sun can dry out the soil, so regular watering is essential. The soil pH should be neutral to slightly acidic. This helps the Thuja conifer grow healthily and form an attractive green screen. The right pH level and sufficient sunlight ensure healthy Arborvitae hedge plants. For more information on planting location, see below under ‘Planting & Care’.

Tip: Use Heijnen planting soil for optimal root development.

Planting a Thuja hedge

A Thuja conifer hedge is best planted in autumn or early spring. Thuja hedge plants supplied in pots can be planted year-round, except during periods of frost. For root-balled or bare-root plants, planting in spring or autumn is most suitable, as the risk of drying out is then minimal. Proper planting distance is important for creating a dense hedge. The size of the Thuja at planting time plays a key role. Precise information about spacing and the number of Arborvitae plants per linear metre can be found on each specific product page. As a general rule, you can follow the guidelines below per linear metre, based on plant height:

Thuja hedge 60/80 cm, 80/100 cm – 3 plants per linear metre
Thuja hedge 100/120 cm, 120/140 cm, 140/160 cm – 2.5 plants per linear metre
Thuja hedge 160/180 cm, 180/200 cm, 200/225 cm – 2 plants per linear metre

For successful planting, it is important to prepare the soil properly. A neutral to chalky, well-drained, and slightly moist soil is preferred. Heijnen planting soil can be very useful here. Add compost when planting to provide extra nutrients. After planting the Thuja hedge, it is essential to give the plants sufficient water, especially during dry periods. For a detailed step-by-step guide on planting a Thuja hedge, see our hedge planting instructions.

Tip: Do you want a fully grown conifer hedge quickly? Then choose larger pot-grown or root-balled Thuja plants.

Maintaining a Thuja hedge (Arborvitae) for healthy growth

With the right care and attention, a Thuja hedge can thrive and last for many years. For optimal growth and an attractive appearance, it is important to maintain your Thuja properly.
The plant experts at Heijnen have outlined below a concise guide for the care and maintenance of Thuja hedges.

Planting Thuja

Plant a Thuja hedge in a location with full sun to partial shade.
Ensure the soil is well-drained to prevent root problems in the conifer hedge.
Add compost or fertiliser annually to promote healthy growth.

Arborvitae pruning advice

Prune Thuja twice a year, in spring and summer, to maintain a neat hedge, as Arborvitae is a fast-growing conifer hedge.
Use sharp pruning shears or hedge trimmers and avoid cutting back into old wood.
Remove dead branches from the Thuja hedge in early spring or after flowering.

Fertilising Thuja

Fertilise in spring and summer to ensure optimal growth of Arborvitae plants.
Use a balanced fertiliser for conifers, such as Heijnen starter and maintenance fertiliser.
Avoid over-fertilisation and never apply fertiliser granules directly onto the plant.

Watering Arborvitae (Thuja)

After planting, water the Thuja hedge generously until it is well-established.
Check soil moisture to determine whether the conifer hedge actually needs watering.
Once established, water Arborvitae only during dry periods (but avoid waterlogging).
Watering in the early morning or evening is preferable to minimise evaporation.

For detailed information on the care and maintenance of Thuja (Arborvitae) hedges, see the section on this page titled ‘Planting & Care Thuja (Arborvitae) hedge’.

The ornamental value of Arborvitae hedge plants

Thuja is one of the most widely used hedge plants, thanks in part to its ornamental qualities. This hedge owes its appeal to the following factors:

Evergreen: Thuja retains its dark green colour throughout the year, even in winter. Ideal for gardens that should remain lively and green during the colder months.
Dense branch structure: The compact branching ensures a neat, uniform hedge when pruned regularly. Perfect for privacy, wind protection, and noise reduction in the garden.
Fast-growing: Arborvitae grows quickly, averaging around 25–50 cm per year! This allows you to establish a full hedge in a relatively short time.
Easy to prune: Since Thuja tolerates pruning very well, the hedge can be maintained at any desired height. As it is a vigorous grower, the plant is particularly suitable for medium to tall hedges.
Attractive details: Thuja features scale-like leaves, woody cones, and fibrous, reddish-brown bark, which add extra character to the hedge. A light resinous fragrance from the foliage provides a pleasant scent in the garden.
Ecological value: Arborvitae provides shelter and nesting sites for birds and small animals. This increases biodiversity in the garden, creating a healthier ecological balance.

Well-known and commonly used Thuja varieties for hedging

Heijnen Plants offers five Thuja varieties in its range, each perfectly suited for use as a hedge. Below you will find more information about these varieties and their characteristic features:

Thuja occidentalis 'Brabant' hedge: Thuja occidentalis 'Brabant' is characterised by its fresh, light green foliage, which may become slightly duller in colour during winter. It is very hardy and tolerates most weather conditions, although it is slightly more sensitive to strong winds compared to plicata varieties. It reaches a maximum height of around 4 to 5 metres, making it suitable for medium to tall hedges. With a growth rate of 30 to 50 cm per year, this Thuja hedge establishes quickly but requires regular pruning.
Thuja occidentalis 'Smaragd' hedge: Thuja occidentalis 'Smaragd' stands out with its striking emerald-green foliage that retains its colour beautifully through winter. This is a very hardy variety which, thanks to its narrow, conical growth, requires little pruning. It reaches a maximum height of 4 to 5 metres, making it ideal for medium-height, formal hedges. With a slower growth rate of 20 to 40 cm per year, it holds its shape for longer without intensive maintenance.
Thuja plicata 'Atrovirens' hedge: Thuja plicata 'Atrovirens' has a deep, dark green colour that is retained throughout the year. This variety is extremely hardy and wind-resistant, making it well-suited for tall and sheltered hedges. With a growth rate of about 30 to 50 cm per year, it quickly forms a dense hedge.
Thuja plicata 'Martin' hedge: Thuja plicata 'Martin' is distinguished by its rich dark green colour and compact, bushy growth habit. This hedge is very hardy and thrives well in windy and moist conditions. Its growth rate is around 30 to 50 cm per year. Thanks to its compact growth, it forms a dense hedge that requires less frequent pruning compared to the 'Brabant'.
Thuja plicata 'Excelsa' hedge: Thuja plicata 'Excelsa' is noted for its glossy, dark green foliage, which retains its colour beautifully even in winter. This variety is highly winter-hardy and resistant to wind and shaded locations. 'Excelsa' forms a tall, dense hedge that is particularly suitable for noise and visual screening. With a growth rate of 30 to 50 cm per year, it quickly creates a full hedge with minimal maintenance.

What are the advantages and disadvantages of Arborvitae (Thuja) hedges?

Thuja is a plant often chosen for hedges and topiary in the garden. The hedge specialists at Heijnen have listed the main advantages and disadvantages of Arborvitae below:

Advantages

Thuja conifer hedges are fast growers, making them ideal for creating tall hedges in a short period of time.
This plant is easy to prune and can therefore be maintained at any desired height, ensuring a neat and tidy hedge.
It is an evergreen hedge, meaning the plant stays green throughout the year while providing privacy in the garden.
Thuja is highly suitable for hedges and topiary thanks to its dense growth and adaptability.
The Arborvitae conifer hedge is very hardy and can thrive in cold climates.

Disadvantages

Thuja can be susceptible to fungal diseases if air circulation is insufficient.
Arborvitae does not tolerate waterlogged soil well.

Looking to buy Thuja? Delivered directly from the nursery

You can easily and affordably buy Thuja hedges online at Heijnen. Since 1976, the Heijnen family has been growing a wide range of hedge plants, including Arborvitae (Thuja). A Thuja hedge plant is an ideal choice for almost any garden and is delivered directly from the nursery, ensuring the best quality. These fast-growing Thuja hedges not only provide privacy in your garden but also offer a beautiful green appearance throughout the year. Thanks to the strong growth rate of Arborvitae plants, you can create a tall, dense hedge within just a few years. Do you still have questions or would you like advice about buying a Thuja hedge? Then feel free to contact our plant specialists by email or phone.

Buy your Thuja (Arborvitae) hedge directly from the grower and benefit from:

Top-quality Thuja hedge plants grown locally
Fast delivery throughout the United Kingdom
Advice from experienced plant specialists

Alternative Hedge Plants for the Thuja

Would you prefer a different type of hedge than the thuja? Then discover our popular and possible alternatives here:

Ideal placement of a Tetrapanax

For optimal growth, the Thuja species thrives in a variety of lighting conditions, from full sun to partial shade, and even shade, though it prefers at least a few hours of sunlight daily for the densest foliage. Well-drained soil is crucial to avoid root rot, but it adapts well to different soil types. When considering placement, ensure adequate space is provided for the plant to reach its full size and form without overcrowding. This will promote a healthy growth habit and maintain the plant's vibrant green foliage throughout all seasons.

Planting a Tetrapanax

Planting this evergreen hedge should be done with care to ensure a robust and healthy growth. Begin by digging a trench for the root ball, ensuring it is wider and slightly deeper than the root system itself. Place the root ball into the trench, ensuring that the top of the root ball is level with the soil surface. Backfill the trench with a mixture of native soil and compost to encourage strong root development. After planting, water thoroughly to settle the soil and remove any air pockets. Regular watering is essential for the first growing season to establish a deep, extensive root system.

Pruning a Tetrapanax

One of the many advantages of cultivating Thuja as a hedge or solitary specimen is its low-maintenance character, particularly when it comes to pruning. Pruning is not required for this evergreen species to maintain its health or vigor. However, should you desire to shape your hedge or control its size, light trimming is best performed in late spring or early autumn to promote denser growth. Always ensure the use of clean, sharp tools to make precise cuts.

Watering a Tetrapanax

To maintain the lush greenery of Thuja throughout the year, it is essential to provide consistent moisture. This species thrives with an even supply of water, particularly during dry spells. Young plants in particular benefit from regular watering as this helps establish their root systems. Established hedges can tolerate some drought but will look their best with adequate moisture. Overwatering can be detrimental, so ensure the soil is well-drained to prevent root rot. During the winter, watering can be reduced, but monitor the soil moisture to avoid the roots drying out.

Fertilising a Tetrapanax

To sustain the lush, evergreen foliage of Thuja throughout the seasons, it is integral to provide it with the necessary nutrients. A balanced fertiliser applied in early spring can promote vigorous growth and enhance the rich green coloration of the plant. When fertilizing, spread the granules around the base of the hedge or solitary specimen, careful to avoid direct contact with the foliage to prevent burn.

An additional application during the mid-summer can help maintain the Thuja's vitality, especially when it is establishing new growth or recovering from pruning. Opt for a fertiliser formulated for evergreen trees and shrubs, which typically includes a higher nitrogen content to support the dense foliage characteristic of these plants. By following these guidelines, the Thuja can thrive and maintain its robust appearance throughout the year.

The characteristics of a Tetrapanax

With its dense evergreen foliage, Thuja serves as an excellent natural screen for privacy throughout the year. Its root ball ensures a robust foundation, allowing for smooth transplantation and establishment in a variety of garden soils. To maintain a neat appearance, yearly shaping is beneficial, but this species tolerates heavy pruning if more significant size management is required. Additionally, its aromatic leaves can add a delightful, subtle fragrance to your garden, enhancing the sensory experience of your outdoor space.

The ideal variety for you Buy thuja (arborvitae)

The Thuja stands as a paragon of resilience and beauty in the plant kingdom. Its dense foliage and stately form make it an excellent choice for creating lush privacy screens or elegant accents in the landscape. Moreover, Thujas are remarkably low maintenance, thriving with minimal care, and exuding an air of timeless grace year-round.

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