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Dark Green Arborvitae
Dark Green Arborvitae
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Thuja occidentalis ‘Nigra’
The Dark Green Arborvitae (Bare Root) is a dense, evergreen conifer prized for its rich dark green foliage, natural pyramidal shape, and year-round beauty. This low-maintenance, cold-hardy, and disease-resistant tree is perfect for privacy screens, windbreaks, and formal landscapes. With a moderate growth rate, strong adaptability, and tolerance to various soil conditions, the Dark Green Arborvitae is an ideal choice for homeowners and landscapers seeking a lush, long-lasting evergreen.
Dark Green Arborvitae Tree (Bare Root) Overview
Attribute | Details |
---|---|
Variety | Bare Root |
Botanical Name | Thuja occidentalis ‘Nigra’ |
Common Names | Dark Green Arborvitae, Nigra Arborvitae |
Mature Height | 20-30 feet |
Mature Width | 6-10 feet |
Growth Rate | Moderate (1-2 feet per year) |
Lifespan | 50+ years |
USDA Hardiness Zones | 3-8 |
Sun Preference | Full sun to partial shade |
Soil Type | Well-drained, loamy, sandy, or slightly clay soils |
Soil pH | Slightly acidic to neutral (6.0-7.5) |
Water Needs | Moderate; drought-tolerant once established |
Foliage Color | Deep, dark green year-round |
Wildlife Attraction | Provides shelter for birds and small wildlife |
Growth Habit | Columnar, dense, upright growth |
Self-Pollinating? | Yes |
Landscape Uses | Privacy screens, hedges, windbreaks, foundation plantings, formal landscapes |
Maintenance Level | Low |
Environmental Benefits
🌱 Wind & Noise Barrier – Forms a dense natural hedge, helping to block wind and reduce noise pollution.
🐦 Wildlife Shelter – Provides valuable shelter for birds and small animals throughout the year.
🌳 Carbon Sequestration & Air Purification – Absorbs carbon dioxide, improving air quality and reducing pollution.
💧 Soil Stabilization & Erosion Control – Deep roots help stabilize soil, making it an ideal tree for preventing erosion.
Pros & Cons
Pros | Cons |
---|---|
Dense, dark green foliage provides year-round privacy | Requires consistent watering until established |
Naturally maintains its shape with minimal pruning | Grows slower than some other arborvitae varieties |
Cold-hardy and drought-resistant once mature | Prefers full sun for best growth and color |
Highly resistant to pests and diseases | Not suited for hot, humid climates (zones 9 and above) |
Long lifespan and strong adaptability | Needs good air circulation to prevent fungal issues in humid areas |
Planting & Care Guide (Bare Root)
- Spacing: Plant 6-10 feet apart for a dense hedge or 10-12 feet apart for individual trees
- Soaking: Soak bare root in water for 6-12 hours before planting
- Planting Depth: Dig a hole twice as wide as the root system, ensuring roots are level with the soil surface
- Mulching: Apply a 2-3 inch layer of mulch to retain moisture and suppress weeds
- Pruning: Minimal pruning required; trim lightly to shape in late winter or early spring
- Fertilization: Apply a slow-release, balanced fertilizer in early spring to encourage strong growth
- Watering: Water deeply 2-3 times per week in the first year, then reduce as the tree matures
The Dark Green Arborvitae (Bare Root) is a top choice for homeowners and landscapers looking to create a long-lasting, evergreen privacy screen or windbreak. Whether used for formal gardens, natural barriers, or year-round greenery, this low-maintenance, disease-resistant conifer is an excellent investment for any landscape.
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