Choosing the right evergreen for your landscape can significantly impact its overall aesthetic and require careful consideration. Two popular choices often compared are the Emerald Green Arborvitae and the Green Giant Arborvitae. Both offer dense, vibrant foliage, but their distinct characteristics make them suitable for different purposes and environments. This comprehensive guide will delve into the key differences to help you make an informed decision.
What are the Key Differences Between Emerald Green and Green Giant Arborvitae?
The most significant differences between Emerald Green and Green Giant Arborvitae lie in their growth rate, mature size, and overall shape. Understanding these variations is crucial for selecting the right cultivar for your available space and desired landscape design.
Growth Rate: A Tale of Two Speeds
Emerald Green Arborvitae: This cultivar is known for its slow to moderate growth rate. Expect an annual growth of around 12-18 inches in height and width. This slower growth makes it easier to manage and maintain its shape over time.
Green Giant Arborvitae: In contrast, the Green Giant Arborvitae boasts a much faster growth rate. It can easily grow 3-5 feet per year, making it a popular choice for those seeking rapid screening or privacy solutions. This rapid growth, however, necessitates more frequent pruning and shaping.
Mature Size: Planning for the Future
Emerald Green Arborvitae: This smaller cultivar typically reaches a mature height of 10-15 feet with a width of 3-4 feet, making it suitable for smaller spaces or as foundation plantings. Its slender, columnar form adds a refined elegance to any landscape.
Green Giant Arborvitae: The Green Giant lives up to its name, achieving a mature height of 40-60 feet and a width of 10-15 feet. Its imposing size makes it ideal for windbreaks, privacy screens, or as striking specimen plants in large properties. Careful planning is essential to accommodate its substantial mature size.
Shape and Form: Defining Your Landscape's Character
Emerald Green Arborvitae: Its naturally narrow, columnar shape requires minimal pruning to maintain its upright form. This makes it a low-maintenance option for creating vertical accents or lining walkways.
Green Giant Arborvitae: While generally pyramidal, the Green Giant’s wider, more robust shape demands more attention to pruning, especially if you want to maintain a specific form. Regular shearing can help control its vigorous growth and prevent it from becoming overly sprawling.
Hardiness and Tolerance: Thriving in Different Climates
Both Emerald Green and Green Giant Arborvitae are hardy and relatively low-maintenance. However, minor differences exist in their hardiness zones. Research the specific hardiness zone of your region to ensure you select the cultivar best suited for your climate.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Here are answers to some common questions about Emerald Green and Green Giant Arborvitae:
How often should I prune my Emerald Green/Green Giant Arborvitae?
Pruning is essential for both cultivars, but the frequency depends on the desired shape and the growth rate. Emerald Green Arborvitae requires less frequent pruning due to its slower growth. Green Giant Arborvitae, on the other hand, may need pruning once or twice a year, particularly during the growing season, to maintain its form and prevent it from becoming overgrown.
Which is better for a privacy screen?
For a quickly established privacy screen, the Green Giant Arborvitae is the superior choice due to its rapid growth rate. However, consider the mature size; it may require more space than the Emerald Green.
Which is better for a small garden?
The Emerald Green Arborvitae is a much better choice for smaller gardens due to its compact size and slower growth. The Green Giant's substantial mature size would overwhelm a small space.
Are they susceptible to diseases or pests?
Both cultivars are generally resistant to common diseases and pests. However, proper planting, watering, and fertilization practices will contribute to their overall health and resilience.
Which is more expensive?
Generally, Green Giant Arborvitae saplings are slightly more expensive due to their rapid growth and larger size at purchase.
In conclusion, the choice between Emerald Green and Green Giant Arborvitae ultimately depends on your specific needs and landscape design goals. Consider the available space, desired mature size, growth rate tolerance, and your personal preferences to make the best decision for your property. Remember to carefully research the specific requirements of each cultivar to ensure its successful growth and longevity in your garden.
