Thuja occidentalis Planet Earth® (American Arborvitae)

Thuja occidentalis Planet Earth® is an attractive cultivar of the Eastern Arborvitae, known for its unique form and landscaping appeal.

Thuja occidentalis Planet Earth®: An In-depth Look

Planet Earth® is celebrated for its distinctive spherical shape and dense, soft, green foliage. It stands out for its neat, globular form, which adds a sculptural element to gardens. Planet Earth™ was bred in Georgia by Dr. John Ruter at the University of Georgia.

Native: Thuja occidentalis is native to North America. It is predominantly found in the northeastern United States and southeastern Canada. This species naturally occurs in wet forests, swamps, and along lake shores, thriving in cool, moist, well-drained environments.

Plant Type and Habit: It is an evergreen conifer with a unique, rounded, and compact growth habit. This globular form makes it quite distinct in the world of conifers.

Size: Planet Earth® is a dwarf cultivar, growing to about 3-5 feet in height and width (90-150 cm). Its small size makes it ideal for limited spaces.

Foliage: The foliage is a vibrant green, soft, and feathery, maintaining its color throughout most of the year. It takes on bronze tones in colder climates.

Bark: The bark is reddish-brown, relatively smooth, and becomes more textured with age.

Uses: Ideal for rock gardens, foundation plantings, borders, container gardening, and as a specimen plant. Its unique shape and compact size make it versatile for various landscape designs.

Hardiness: Hardy in USDA zones 4-8, it can withstand cold winters and a range of environmental conditions.

Wildlife: American arborvitae provides nesting sites for songbirds, as well as cover, especially in the winter, for deer, which both feed on the branches and use them for shelter from the cold.

Toxicity: Generally considered non-toxic to humans and animals.

Deer and Rabbit: May suffer some damage from deer and rabbits, especially in areas where these animals are prevalent.

Invasiveness: This cultivar is not considered invasive and typically stays within its planted boundaries.

Benefits: Offers year-round greenery and is easy to maintain. Its unique form and compact size are suitable for decorative and functional uses in various garden settings. Planet Earth® is resistant to Passalora/Cercospora needle blight, a fungal disease causing brown spots and needle drop in conifers, especially in wet, humid conditions.

American Arborvitae Growing Tips

Light: Thrives in full sun but can also grow well in partial shade. Full sun exposure leads to denser foliage growth. Usually appreciates some light afternoon shade in hot summer climates. Protect from drying winds, especially when young.

Soil: Adaptable to a wide range of soils but prefers moist, well-drained, slightly acidic to neutral soil. Tolerates clay soils.

Water: Regular watering is important, especially for young plants and in dry conditions. Avoid extreme dry soil in the fall, which can cause the evergreen foliage to dry out in winter.

Fertilizer: Apply a balanced, slow-release fertilizer in early spring. Over-fertilization can harm the plant, so follow the recommended rates.

Pruning: Little to no pruning is required. Prune for shaping or size control in late winter or early spring before new growth starts. Avoid heavy pruning.

Mulch: Provide a generous root zone mulch.

Propagation: Propagated through semi-hardwood cuttings in late summer.

Pests and Diseases: Watch for bagworms, spider mites, mealybugs, and scale insects. Leaf tips may suffer damage from leaf miners. Canker can sometimes pose a problem. Fungal diseases like root rot can occur in poorly drained soils. Good air circulation and proper planting depth help prevent these issues.