Thuja plicata smntpgf
treeN. America Native

Spring Grove Western Arborvitae

Thuja plicata smntpgf

Not currently listed at our partner nurseries.

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Essentials

At a Glance

Plant Type

Tree

Height

300 inches

Width

84 inches

Light

Full Sun, Partial Sun

Zones

5, 6, 7, 8

Water

Medium

Humidity

Average

Lifespan

Long-lived conifer

Native To

North America

Toxicity

Mildly toxic if ingested in large quantities

The Story

Plant Bio

Thuja plicata, or Western Redcedar, is a large, conical evergreen conifer native to the Pacific Northwest, valued for its aromatic, scale-like foliage and reddish-brown bark. It's a fast-growing and long-lived tree. Spring Grove is a selection known for its narrow, pyramidal habit, excellent winter color retention, and superior resistance to deer browsing compared to other arborvitaes. It maintains a tight form without shearing.

Bloom Period:

J
F
M
A
M
J
J
A
S
O
N
D
EarlyLate

Uses & Benefits:

Ornamental UsesIts narrow, upright form provides a strong vertical element, creating a formal, elegant look. The dense, evergreen foliage offers year-round color and texture, serving as an excellent backdrop for other plants.
Practical UsesSpring Grove is an ideal choice for creating a 'living wall' for privacy or to block unsightly views. Its fast growth and dense habit also make it an effective windbreak, reducing wind speed in exposed areas.
Ecological BenefitsThe dense branches provide excellent shelter and nesting sites for small birds throughout the year, protecting them from predators and harsh weather. It offers crucial winter cover when deciduous trees are bare.

Marketplace

Where to Buy

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Planting

How to Grow

  1. Choose a location with at least 6 hours of direct sun daily.
  2. Dig a hole twice as wide and just as deep as the root ball.
  3. Gently loosen the roots and place the plant in the hole.
  4. Ensure the top of the root ball is level with the surrounding soil.
  5. Backfill with native soil, firming gently to remove air pockets.
  6. Water thoroughly after planting and mulch to retain moisture.

Pro Tip

Ensure good air circulation to prevent fungal issues; avoid planting too close to buildings or other trees.

Keep It Thriving

Care Guide

Do

  • Water deeply and regularly during the first growing season to establish roots.
  • Provide a layer of mulch to protect roots and conserve water.
  • Prune lightly in early spring to maintain desired shape and size.
  • Monitor for pests like bagworms, especially in early summer.

Don't

  • Do not plant in poorly drained or constantly wet soil.
  • Avoid letting the root ball dry out completely, especially when young.
  • Do not shear into late fall, as new growth can be damaged by winter cold.
  • Never pile mulch directly against the trunk.

Seasonal Care Calendar

TaskJanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec
Mulch
Pest Check
Plant
Prune

Watch Out For

Pests & Diseases

Common Pests

Common Diseases

In the Garden

Landscape Uses & Companions

Landscape Uses

Tall, narrow privacy screenFormal vertical accent for entrywaysWindbreak for tight spaces

Companion Plants

Hydrangea paniculata Spiraea japonica Pennisetum alopecuroides Rudbeckia fulgida Sedum 'Autumn Joy'

Multiply

Propagation Methods

Good to Know

Common Questions

Spring Grove Western Arborvitae questions

What zones can Spring Grove Western Arborvitae grow in?

Spring Grove Western Arborvitae is hardy in USDA Zones 5–8. Inside that range it survives winter in the ground; outside it, grow it as an annual or a container plant you protect.

Is Spring Grove Western Arborvitae deer resistant?

Yes — Spring Grove Western Arborvitae is rated deer-resistant. Deer typically pass it over, though extreme hunger can override any plant's defenses.

When does Spring Grove Western Arborvitae bloom?

Spring Grove Western Arborvitae typically blooms in early spring through early spring. Exact timing shifts a week or two with your zone — Sow's bloom calendar maps it to your garden.

Does Spring Grove Western Arborvitae need full sun?

Spring Grove Western Arborvitae does best in full sun to part shade. In hot climates, afternoon shade keeps blooms fresher longer.

Is Spring Grove Western Arborvitae drought tolerant?

Yes — once established (usually after the first full season), Spring Grove Western Arborvitae handles dry spells with minimal watering. Water deeply its first year to build the root system that makes that possible.

Keep exploring

Grow Spring Grove Western 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.

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