Choosing the right evergreen for your landscape can significantly impact its aesthetic appeal and overall health. Two popular choices often compared are the Emerald Green Arborvitae and the Green Giant Arborvitae. While both offer lush, green foliage and vertical accents, they possess distinct characteristics that make them suitable for different purposes and environments. This comprehensive guide will delve into the key differences between these two popular arborvitae varieties, helping you make an informed decision for your landscaping project.
What are the Key Differences Between Emerald Green and Green Giant Arborvitae?
The primary differences between Emerald Green and Green Giant Arborvitae lie in their growth rate, mature size, and overall shape. Understanding these distinctions will be crucial in determining which variety best fits your space and landscaping goals.
Growth Rate: The Green Giant Arborvitae is renowned for its incredibly fast growth rate, often adding 2-3 feet annually. The Emerald Green, in contrast, is a much slower grower, typically adding only 6-12 inches per year. This slower growth makes the Emerald Green ideal for smaller spaces where controlled growth is preferred.
Mature Size: This difference in growth rate translates directly to mature size. Green Giants can reach impressive heights of 40-60 feet tall and 10-20 feet wide, making them statement pieces in larger landscapes. Emerald Greens remain significantly smaller, typically reaching a mature height of 10-15 feet tall and 3-5 feet wide, making them suitable for smaller yards, foundation plantings, or hedges.
Shape and Appearance: Both cultivars boast a pyramidal or conical shape, but there are subtle differences. The Green Giant tends to have a slightly looser, less dense habit, with a more pronounced central leader. The Emerald Green, on the other hand, maintains a tighter, more uniformly dense shape with a strong, defined outline.
Emerald Green Arborvitae: A Closer Look
The Emerald Green Arborvitae ( Thuja occidentalis 'Smaragd') is a popular choice for its consistently vibrant, bright green color throughout the year. Its relatively slow growth and compact nature make it exceptionally versatile for various landscaping applications.
What are the pros and cons of Emerald Green Arborvitae?
Pros:
- Dense, Uniform Shape: Maintains a tightly packed, symmetrical shape requiring minimal pruning.
- Vibrant Green Color: Retains its lush green color year-round.
- Slow Growth: Ideal for smaller spaces or where controlled growth is desired.
- Relatively Low Maintenance: Requires minimal pruning and upkeep.
Cons:
- Slower Growth: May not achieve desired height quickly.
- More Expensive: Often more costly per plant than Green Giant due to slower growth and higher demand.
- Susceptibility to Diseases: While generally hardy, can be susceptible to certain diseases if not planted in well-drained soil.
Green Giant Arborvitae: A Closer Look
The Green Giant Arborvitae (Thuja standishii x plicata 'Green Giant') is a hybrid cultivar known for its exceptional growth rate and impressive size. Its rapid growth makes it a popular choice for quickly establishing privacy screens or windbreaks.
What are the pros and cons of Green Giant Arborvitae?
Pros:
- Fast Growth: Achieves significant height and width quickly.
- Excellent for Privacy Screens: Creates a dense screen in a short amount of time.
- Hardy and Adaptable: Tolerates a wide range of soil conditions.
- Relatively Low Maintenance: Once established, requires minimal pruning.
Cons:
- Rapid Growth: Requires more frequent pruning to maintain desired shape.
- Large Mature Size: Not suitable for small spaces.
- Can Become Leggy: If not properly pruned, it can become leggy at the base.
- More Prone to Winter Burn: Needs protection in harsh winter climates.
Which Arborvitae is Right for You?
The best choice between Emerald Green and Green Giant depends entirely on your specific needs and landscaping goals. Consider the following factors:
- Available Space: Emerald Green is ideal for smaller spaces, while Green Giant is better suited for larger areas.
- Desired Growth Rate: Choose Green Giant for rapid growth, or Emerald Green for slower, more controlled growth.
- Maintenance Level: Green Giant requires more frequent pruning, while Emerald Green needs less maintenance.
- Budget: Emerald Green can be more expensive per plant.
By carefully considering these factors, you can select the arborvitae variety that will thrive in your landscape and perfectly complement your vision. Remember to consult with a local nursery professional for tailored advice based on your specific climate and soil conditions.
