American arborvitae

For American arborvitae plants, water thoroughly once every 3 to 4 weeks in the summer. In the winter, reduce watering to once a month or less. Make sure to check soil moisture levels before watering; the soil should be slightly dry (not overly dry or soggy) before watering. It is best to water deeply with a stream of water and then allow the soil to completely dry out in between watering. Too much water can cause root rot.

American arborvitae prefers full sun or partial shade, receiving at least 6 hours of direct sunlight a day for best growth. When grown in partial shade, the plant should receive a minimum of 4 hours of direct sunlight each day. When planted in an area that receives too little sunlight, the foliage of arborvitae will become thin, leggy and more open. It is best to plant the tree in a location that receives morning sun and shade from the hot afternoon sun.

American arborvitae (Thuja occidentalis 'Filiformis') should be pruned during its period of active growth, which is typically in the early Spring. Prune as needed, taking care not to over prune as it will damage the plant’s health. Pruning should be limited and focused - remove only dead or diseased branches, or any branches that may be crossing each other. Never cut more than ⅓ of the total foliage as this could shock the plant, and leave it prone to disease and pest infestation. For large or overgrown plants, it may be necessary to call in a professional arborist for assistance and guidance.