Emerald Green Arborvitae Shrub: Cold-Hardy Privacy Screen in 3 Years

Planting an Emerald Green Arborvitae shrub means a cold-hardy, lush privacy screen that grows 3 feet per year—and I’ve watched mine transform my yard from bare to beautiful in just three seasons. 🌲 The secret?

These evergreens thrive in tough conditions, from harsh winters to dry spells, while keeping their signature vibrant green color year-round. Unlike fussy shrubs, they’re low-maintenance once established, making them perfect for busy gardeners who still want that "wow" impact.

Start with well-draining soil—these shrubs hate soggy roots—and give them full sun to partial shade (at least 6 hours of sunlight daily). Water deeply once a week for the first year, then taper off as they grow; mature plants are drought-tolerant. The key to that neat, columnar shape?

Light pruning in early spring to shape new growth, but avoid heavy cuts—Arborvitae respond best to gentle guidance. With the right care, you’ll have a dense, 12-foot-tall screen in no time, blocking noise and wind while adding curb appeal.

What makes this shrub stand out is its resilience—deer-resistant, pest-deterrent, and able to handle temperatures down to -40°F. My neighbors’ Arborvitae survived a brutal winter last year while other shrubs browned out.

The trade-off? They grow slowly at first, so patience pays off. By year three, you’ll have a thriving hedge that requires minimal upkeep, freeing you to enjoy your outdoor space instead of tending it.

For best results, plant in early spring or fall when soil is cool but workable, and space them 3-4 feet apart for a tight, uniform screen. Mulch around the base to retain moisture and suppress weeds—this is where most gardeners trip up.

Once established, these shrubs are nearly indestructible, making them the smart choice for long-term privacy without the hassle. Ready to get started?

What you need

Step-by-step instructions for planting Emerald Green Arborvitae as a privacy screen

Here's how to create a lush, cold-hardy privacy screen that delivers dense coverage in just three years.

Choose a location with full sun to partial shade—Emerald Green Arborvitae thrives in 6+ hours of sunlight daily but tolerates morning shade in hotter climates. Mark planting spots 4-6 feet apart in rows spaced 4-5 feet apart for optimal airflow and growth. For a 6-foot-tall screen, plan on 12-16 plants per 10 feet of fence length.

Dig holes twice as wide as the root ball but only as deep as the container. The top of the root ball should sit 1-2 inches above ground level—this prevents waterlogging. Amend the native soil with 2-3 inches of compost mixed into the bottom of each hole to improve drainage and nutrient availability.

Remove the arborvitae from its container and gently loosen the roots if they're circling. Place the plant in the hole, ensuring the root flare (where roots meet the trunk) is visible above the soil line. Backfill with native soil mixed with ¼ cup of balanced fertilizer (10-10-10) per hole to encourage early root establishment.

Water deeply to settle the soil, then firm it gently around the base. Insert two 4-foot stakes on opposite sides of the plant, securing them with soft plant ties to prevent wind rock. Mulch the area with 2-3 inches of wood chips, keeping mulch 6 inches away from the trunk to prevent rot. This mulch ring retains moisture and suppresses weeds.

Water newly planted arborvitae 2-3 times per week for the first month, then once weekly thereafter, providing 1-2 gallons per plant each time. Check soil moisture by inserting your finger 2 inches deep—water when dry. Avoid overhead watering to prevent fungal diseases; instead, use a soaker hose or drip irrigation at the base.

Fertilize in early spring with ½ cup of slow-release fertilizer per plant, following package instructions. Prune only to remove dead or damaged branches in the first year—never "shear" for shape until the plant reaches 3 feet tall. This encourages natural density and cold hardiness.

Once your arborvitae reach 3-4 feet tall, begin light pruning in late winter or early spring to shape the screen. Use sharp, clean pruners to trim back 1/3 of the new growth on the outer branches, focusing on the top and sides. This encourages bushier growth and fills in gaps. Avoid heavy pruning—never remove more than 25% of the plant's foliage in a single season.

Watch for brown tips or thinning foliage, which often signal over-pruning, drought, or winter burn. If you see these signs, reduce pruning and increase watering. By year three, your screen should reach 6-8 feet tall with dense, cold-hardy foliage that blocks wind and provides year-round privacy.

Tips & tricks for perfect Emerald Green Arborvitae planting

Creating a stunning privacy screen starts with the right approach—here’s how to avoid common pitfalls and set your Emerald Green Arborvitae up for success.

Sunlight Strategy: While the instructions mention full sun to partial shade, I’ve found that morning sun with afternoon shade works best in hotter climates. If your area gets intense afternoon sun, consider planting on the north or east side of your property to prevent leaf scorch. The 6+ hours of sunlight is non-negotiable, but timing matters just as much as total exposure.

Root Ball Prep: When loosening circling roots in Step 2, take your time—don’t rush this step. I’ve seen plants struggle when roots are damaged during transplanting. Use your fingers to gently separate them, and if the roots are tightly bound, soak the root ball in water for 10-15 minutes beforehand. This makes the process much smoother and reduces transplant shock.

Mulching Mastery: The 2-3 inches of wood chips is perfect, but here’s the secret: rake the mulch away from the trunk to create a slight depression around the base. This helps water pool near the roots while keeping the trunk dry. Over time, this simple adjustment prevents rot and ensures your plants get the moisture they need without wasting water.

Pruning Precision: In Year 2, when you’re trimming back 1/3 of the new growth, focus on the outer branches first. This creates a natural, fuller shape from the inside out. I’ve seen too many screens that look sparse because people prune from the inside first—this exposes the trunk and weakens the plant’s structure. Think of it like sculpting: you’re shaping the plant’s future growth pattern.

Frequently asked questions

Got questions about growing Emerald Green Arborvitae? You’re not alone! Here are some of the most common concerns—and straightforward answers—to help you plant with confidence.

How fast does an Emerald Green Arborvitae grow, and when will it provide privacy?

The Emerald Green Arborvitae is a fast grower, adding 12–24 inches per year under ideal conditions. With proper spacing (3–4 feet apart), you can expect a 6–8-foot-tall privacy screen in just 3 years. For quicker results, opt for larger nursery-grown plants (5–6 feet tall) to fill gaps faster!

Is this shrub truly cold-hardy? What zones does it thrive in?

This variety is USDA Zones 3–8 hardy, meaning it can handle winter temperatures as low as -40°F (-40°C). It’s perfect for northern climates, urban areas, and even coastal regions (as long as it’s sheltered from salty winds). Just avoid soggy soil in winter to prevent root rot.

Can I plant Emerald Green Arborvitae in full shade? Will it survive?

While it tolerates partial shade (3–6 hours of sun daily), full shade can stunt growth and lead to sparse, leggy foliage. For the best color and density, plant it in full sun to partial shade. If shade is unavoidable, choose a moist, well-draining spot to support its health.