American arborvitae

American arborvitae (Thuja occidentalis 'Filip's Magic Moment') should be watered once or twice a week, depending on the weather and soil type. Depending on the size of the plant, the amount of water needed will vary. In general, for a young tree, give about 10 gallons of water per week, and for an established tree, give around 22 gallons of water per week. In hot, dry weather, increase the amount of water to keep the tree adequately hydrated. Always check the soil before watering, and do not water if it is still wet. Allow the top several inches of soil to dry between waterings. Do not water too frequently, as this can result in water-logged soil, which can lead to root rot and other fungal diseases.

American arborvitae thrives best in areas with partial shade to full sun. For optimal health, it is important to provide American arborvitae with at least 4-5 hours of sunlight per day. This can be done either in the morning or afternoon. It’s important to avoid exposing them to direct sunlight in the peak of the day. To ensure the best results, pick a spot that gets consistent lighting, and try to avoid times when the sun is blocked, such as on certain days of the week. When in full sun, water the American arborvitae more often to reduce the effects of the heat.

When pruning American arborvitae, prune lightly throughout the growing season to maintain the desired shape or size. Aim to remove around 10% of the stem length with each pruning session. During the winter months, more drastic or hard pruning can be conducted if necessary. In late winter or early spring, enhance the plant's form by trimming away any dead or diseased branches. Always use sharp pruners and avoid cutting into the main plant stem. Severe pruning of American arborvitae should be avoided as this will shock the plant and cause new growth to lose its winter hardiness.