Your Thuja (or Arborvitae, as we often call them) is happiest when the soil stays consistently moist. If things get too soggy or bone-dry, your tree is going to have a rough time. Interestingly enough, a thirsty Arborvitae and an overwatered one actually look pretty much the same on the outside!
What happens if your Arborvitae gets too much water?
Believe it or not, a dried-out look isn’t always caused by a lack of water. Too much H2O can cause the exact same sickly appearance. In the worst-case scenario, your hedge could develop root rot and die off completely. If you notice any of these red flags, it’s time to double-check your watering routine:
- Dry, brittle shoots
- Brown tips
- Discolored branches
- Cracked bark
How can you prevent standing water around your Thuja?
Setting your Thuja up for success starts the moment you plant it. Make sure to prep the soil by loosening it up nice and deep. If you’re dealing with heavy, hard soil, try mixing in some fine gravel to help with drainage. Adding a drainage layer is always a smart move, and it’s absolutely essential if you’re growing your Arborvitae in a pot. Also, skip the saucer under your pots so the excess water can flow away freely.
Getting the watering technique right is the next big step. Young trees and newly planted hedges generally need more attention; you’ll want to water them whenever the surface of the soil feels dry. If you’re not sure, just do the “finger test” to check the moisture level an inch or two down. On the other hand, a mature, standalone tree usually only needs a drink during the heat of mid-summer or occasionally during a dry winter.
Your Thuja will actually prefer one deep soaking per week rather than a little bit of water every day. Don’t worry about “hard” water—they handle lime just fine, so tap water is perfectly okay. Try to water in the morning and aim for the base of the plant. Keeping the needles and trunk dry is the best way to prevent fungal diseases from moving in.
