Pollination Information for Green Giant Arborvitae (Thuja standishii x plicata 'Green Giant')

Flowering Period:

The Green Giant Arborvitae typically flowers in mid-spring to early summer.

Pollination Method:

The Green Giant Arborvitae is wind-pollinated and does not require pollinators such as bees or butterflies.

Male and Female Flowers:

The Green Giant Arborvitae has separate male and female flowers called strobili. The male flowers produce pollen and are yellow-brown in color. The female flowers are green and produce ovules.

Pollination Process:

During the flowering period, the male flowers release pollen into the air. The pollen grains are carried by the wind to the female flowers where they land on the receptive surface of the female flowers called the stigma. Pollen grains then germinate and grow a tube down to the ovary where fertilization occurs. Once fertilized, the ovules develop into seeds.

Cross-Pollination:

Cross-pollination can occur between different varieties of Arborvitae, but it is unlikely to occur with other species due to differences in flowering period and morphology.

Green Giant Arborvitae (Thuja standishii x plicata 'Green Giant') FAQ

What is a Green Giant Arborvitae?

Green Giant Arborvitae (Thuja standishii x plicata 'Green Giant') is a hybrid evergreen tree that is a cross between Western Redcedar (Thuja plicata) and Japanese Arborvitae (Thuja standishii). It is a popular choice for privacy screens, hedges, and windbreaks due to its tall and thick foliage.

How fast does a Green Giant Arborvitae grow?

Green Giant Arborvitae is one of the fastest-growing evergreens, with an average growth rate of 3 to 5 feet per year. It can reach a mature height of 50 to 60 feet and a width of 12 to 20 feet.

What are the watering requirements for Green Giant Arborvitae?

Young Green Giant Arborvitae trees require regular watering to establish a good root system. Water deeply once or twice a week, depending on the soil drainage and weather conditions. Once established, Green Giant Arborvitae trees can tolerate drought but may need watering during extended dry periods.

What type of soil does Green Giant Arborvitae prefer?

Green Giant Arborvitae prefers well-draining soil with a pH range of 6.0 to 8.0. It can tolerate a wide range of soil types, including sandy, loamy, or clay soils. However, it does not thrive in waterlogged or compacted soils.

How much sunlight does Green Giant Arborvitae need?

Green Giant Arborvitae performs best in full sun to partial shade. It requires at least 6 hours of direct sunlight per day for optimal growth.

How often should you fertilize Green Giant Arborvitae?

Green Giant Arborvitae requires regular fertilization to maintain healthy growth and foliage. Apply a slow-release, balanced fertilizer once a year in the spring.

What are the pruning requirements for Green Giant Arborvitae?

Green Giant Arborvitae requires minimal pruning to maintain its shape and size. Pruning should be done in early spring before new growth appears. Remove any damaged or dead branches and trim back any overgrown branches to maintain its size and shape.

What are the common pests and diseases that affect Green Giant Arborvitae?

Green Giant Arborvitae is relatively pest and disease-resistant but may be susceptible to spider mites, bagworms, and scale insects. It may also be affected by root rot, canker, or blight in wet or humid conditions.

Can Green Giant Arborvitae be used as a privacy screen or hedge?

Yes, Green Giant Arborvitae is a popular choice for privacy screens, hedges, and windbreaks due to its dense foliage and tall growth habit. It provides year-round screening and requires minimal maintenance.

Planting Green Giant Arborvitae

1. Choose a planting location that has well-draining soil and receives full to partial sun exposure.
2. Dig a hole that is twice as wide and as deep as the root ball of the plant.
3. Remove the plant from its pot and loosen any tangled roots.
4. Place the plant in the center of the hole and backfill with soil, tamping down gently to remove any air pockets.
5. Water thoroughly to settle the soil around the roots.
6. Add a layer of mulch around the base of the plant to help retain moisture and discourage weed growth.

Care for Green Giant Arborvitae

• Water deeply once a week, especially during its first growing season, to ensure the root system becomes established.
• Keep the soil moist but not waterlogged.
• Prune slightly in the early spring or late winter to shape the plant and remove any dead or damaged branches.
• Fertilize once a year, in early spring, with a slow-release fertilizer that is specifically formulated for evergreens.
• Monitor for any signs of pest or disease problems, such as yellowing or browning foliage, and treat accordingly.