Choosing the perfect evergreen for your landscape can feel overwhelming, especially with so many similar varieties available. Two popular choices often compared are the Emerald Green Arborvitae and the Green Giant Arborvitae. While both offer stunning, lush green foliage, they possess distinct characteristics that make them suitable for different needs and planting situations. This comprehensive guide will delve into the key differences between these two evergreens, helping you make an informed decision for your property.
What are the key differences between Emerald Green and Green Giant Arborvitae?
The most significant differences lie in their growth rate, mature size, and overall shape. Emerald Green Arborvitae is known for its slower, more refined growth, while Green Giant Arborvitae boasts a much faster, more robust growth habit. This affects everything from initial cost to long-term maintenance.
How fast do Emerald Green and Green Giant Arborvitae grow?
Emerald Green Arborvitae: This variety is prized for its slow to moderate growth rate, adding approximately 12-15 inches in height per year. This slower growth makes it easier to manage and maintain, particularly in smaller spaces.
Green Giant Arborvitae: In contrast, the Green Giant is a rapid grower, adding 2-3 feet per year or even more under ideal conditions. This rapid growth can be advantageous for quickly establishing a screen or privacy hedge, but it requires more frequent pruning to maintain its desired shape and size.
What is the mature size of Emerald Green and Green Giant Arborvitae?
Emerald Green Arborvitae: This cultivar typically reaches a mature height of 15-20 feet with a spread of 3-5 feet, maintaining a narrow, columnar shape. This makes it ideal for lining driveways, creating narrow screens, or adding vertical accents to a landscape.
Green Giant Arborvitae: This variety is much larger at maturity, reaching heights of 40-60 feet with a spread of 10-15 feet. Its substantial size makes it a powerful statement piece, ideal for creating a windbreak, screening a large area, or serving as a focal point in a spacious landscape.
Which Arborvitae is better for privacy screens?
Both cultivars can be used to create privacy screens, but the choice depends on your timeline and space. The Green Giant's rapid growth makes it the faster solution for establishing a dense screen. However, the Emerald Green, although slower, offers a more refined and controlled look once mature.
What is the ideal spacing for planting Emerald Green and Green Giant Arborvitae?
Emerald Green Arborvitae: Due to its narrower mature size, Emerald Greens can be planted closer together—approximately 2-3 feet apart for a dense hedge.
Green Giant Arborvitae: Given their larger mature size and rapid growth, Green Giants should be planted 4-6 feet apart to allow for ample space as they mature.
Are Emerald Green and Green Giant Arborvitae deer resistant?
Both Emerald Green and Green Giant Arborvitae are generally considered to have moderate deer resistance. While not completely deer-proof, they are less appealing than some other landscape plants. However, deer browsing can still occur, especially during times of food scarcity.
How much sunlight do Emerald Green and Green Giant Arborvitae need?
Both varieties thrive in full sun to partial shade. While they tolerate some shade, optimal growth and vibrant color are achieved with at least 6 hours of sunlight per day.
Which Arborvitae is easier to maintain?
The Emerald Green Arborvitae's slower growth rate translates to less frequent pruning and maintenance compared to the Green Giant Arborvitae. The Green Giant's rapid growth requires more diligent pruning to maintain its shape and prevent it from becoming overgrown.
Which Arborvitae is right for me?
The best choice ultimately depends on your specific needs and preferences. Consider the following:
- Available space: Green Giant is suitable for larger properties, while Emerald Green is better suited for smaller areas.
- Growth rate: If you need a quick screen, Green Giant is the better option. If you prefer slower growth and less maintenance, choose Emerald Green.
- Mature size: Consider the ultimate size of the tree and whether it will fit comfortably within your landscape design.
- Maintenance level: Emerald Green requires less frequent pruning.
By carefully considering these factors, you can confidently select the Arborvitae that perfectly complements your landscape and fulfills your specific needs.
