Tator Tot Arborvitae
Thuja occidentalis 'Tator Tot'
Essentials
At a Glance
Plant Type
Shrub
Height
30 inches
Width
30 inches
Light
Full Sun, Partial Sun
Zones
4, 5, 6, 7
Water
Moderate
Humidity
Average
Lifespan
50+ years
Native To
North America
Toxicity
Non-toxic
The Story
Plant Bio
Compact evergreen shrub with a rounded form, ideal for small gardens. Unique dwarf variety suited for borders and containers.
Uses & Benefits:
Marketplace
Where to Buy
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Planting
How to Grow
- Tuck seeds into moist soil in early spring for best germination.
- Mist cuttings regularly to maintain humidity and root within 6 weeks.
- Plant in well-drained soil with full sun for optimal growth.
- Apply a balanced fertilizer in early spring and mid-summer.
- Mulch around base to retain moisture and suppress weeds.
- Prune lightly in late winter to shape and remove dead branches.
Pro Tip
Use well-draining soil and ensure full sun exposure for rapid, healthy growth.
Keep It Thriving
Care Guide
Do
- Water regularly, especially during dry spells 💧
- Prune lightly to maintain shape ❌ over-pruning
- Fertilize annually with a balanced fertilizer 🌱
- Mulch to conserve moisture and regulate soil temperature
- Monitor for pests and diseases regularly
Don't
- Avoid overwatering to prevent root rot ❌
- Don’t prune in late summer or fall 🌱
- Skip fertilizing during winter months
- Don’t plant in poorly drained soil
- Avoid using chemical pesticides without organic options
Seasonal Care Calendar
| Task | Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Fertilize | ||||||||||||
| Pest Check | ||||||||||||
| Prune | ||||||||||||
| Winter Prep |
Watch Out For
Pests & Diseases
Common Pests
Common Diseases
In the Garden
Landscape Uses & Companions
Landscape Uses
Companion Plants
Multiply
Propagation Methods
Good to Know
Common Questions
Tator Tot Arborvitae questions
What zones can Tator Tot Arborvitae grow in?
Tator Tot Arborvitae is hardy in USDA Zones 4–7. Inside that range it survives winter in the ground; outside it, grow it as an annual or a container plant you protect.
Is Tator Tot Arborvitae deer resistant?
Yes — Tator Tot Arborvitae is rated deer-resistant. Deer typically pass it over, though extreme hunger can override any plant's defenses.
Does Tator Tot Arborvitae need full sun?
Tator Tot Arborvitae does best in full sun to part shade. In hot climates, afternoon shade keeps blooms fresher longer.
Is Tator Tot Arborvitae drought tolerant?
Yes — once established (usually after the first full season), Tator Tot Arborvitae handles dry spells with minimal watering. Water deeply its first year to build the root system that makes that possible.
More Thuja to compare
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Thuja occidentalis 'Green Giant'
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Thuja occidentalis 'Emerald Green'
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Thuja occidentalis 'Smaragd Emerald'
American Pillar Arborvitae
Thuja occidentalis 'American Pillar'
Degroot's Spire Arborvitae
Thuja occidentalis 'Degroot'
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Thuja occidentalis 'Columbia'
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Grow Tator Tot Arborvitae with confidence
See it in a design of your actual yard, get zone-matched care reminders, and track it season by season in your garden journal.
