Thuja plicata Atrovirens (Western Red Cedar)

Tall, columnar-conical tree, with dark green leaves that a slightly aromatic when crushed. Eventual height 60-70ft (twice as high as a average house)

Uses in the garden

Mostly used as a very good hedging plant or can be used as a specimen tree

Growth rate

On average Thuja will grow 2-3ft a year in ideal soil conditions

Best to plant...

Grow in any deep, well-drained soil in full sun. Shelter from cold drying winds, especially when young.

Looking after your Thuja plants

Trim Thuja 2 or 3 times a year (without cutting back into the old wood) with the last cut in late summer or early autumn

Helpful hints

Make sure all soil is well prepared before planting takes place. This will include...
Clearing the area of all perennial weeds (i.e. Nettle, docks, thistles, couch grass) this can be done easily by applying a residual herbicide (Glyphosate) to the area 2-3 weeks prior to planting.
Prepare the soil area well by digging over to a minimum spades depth (12-16”) and width. Incorporate organic matter into the soil (i.e. compost, well rotted manure, well rotted garden waste) this will aid plant establishment and retain moisture in drier soils.
Only plant up to the soil mark on the stem of the plant, this is easily spotted, look just above where the roots of the plant start and you will see the mark. Water plants thoroughly once planted and then on a regular basis until the plants are well established. Bear in mind weather conditions and water more in hot, dry spells and less in prolonged heavy rain spells. Return to buy Thuja