Green Giant Arborvitae

Thuja x 'Green Giant'

Rocket Growth Rate: Gains 3 to 5 feet annually to create instant privacy screens.
Exceptional Hardiness: Thrives in USDA Zones 5–8, resisting heavy snow and southeastern humidity.
Deer Resistant: Foliage is significantly less palatable to deer than other arborvitae varieties.
Dense Privacy: Thuja Green Giant forms a thick, evergreen wall that buffers wind and noise.
Drought Tolerant: Once established, this hybrid vigor variety withstands dry spells better than Leyland Cypress.

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Plant Size

#1 Container 2-3 Feet #3 Container 3-4 Feet

Product variants

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Understanding Plant Options

Nature Hills offers plants in two main formats:

Container Plants: Grown in pots with soil, sized by container volume and plant age
Bare Root Plants: Dormant plants without soil, sized by height measurements

Container Plant Sizes

Container sizes indicate plant age and growing capacity rather than liquid volume equivalents. Our containers follow industry-standard nursery "trade gallon" specifications, which differ from standard liquid gallon measurements.

Young Plants (6 months to 18 months old)

Container Size	Actual Volume	Metric Equivalent
2" x 2" x 3"	0.18 - 0.21 dry quarts	0.20 - 0.23 dry liters
4" Container	0.31 - 0.87 dry quarts	0.35 - 0.96 dry liters
4.5" Container	0.65 dry quarts	0.72 dry liters
6" Container	1.4 dry quarts	1.59 dry liters
1 Quart	1 dry quart	1.1 dry liters
5.5" Container	1.89 dry quarts	2.08 dry liters

Established Plants (18 months to 2.5 years old)

Container Size	Actual Volume	Metric Equivalent
2 Quart	2 dry quarts	2.2 dry liters
#1 Container	2.26 - 3.73 dry quarts	2.49 - 4.11 dry liters
5" x 5" x 12"	3.5 - 4.3 dry quarts	3.85 - 4.74 dry liters

Mature Plants (2-4 years old)

Container Size	Actual Volume	Metric Equivalent
#2 Container	1.19 - 1.76 dry gallons	5.24 - 7.75 dry liters
#3 Container	2.15 - 2.76 dry gallons	8.14 - 12.16 dry liters

Large Plants (3-5 years old)

Container Size	Actual Volume	Metric Equivalent
#5 Container	2.92 - 4.62 dry gallons	12.86 - 20.35 dry liters
#6 Container	5.25 - 6.01 dry gallons	23.12 - 26.42 dry liters
#7 Container	5.98 - 6.53 dry gallons	26.34 - 28.76 dry liters

Bare Root Plants

Bare root plants are sold by height from the root system to the top of the plant. Plants may exceed minimum height requirements.

Common Sizes:

Trees: 1 foot, 2 feet, 3 feet, 4 feet, 5 feet, 6 feet
Shrubs & Perennials: 1 foot, 18 inches, 2 feet

Important Notes

Container Volume Specifications

Trade Gallon Standard: Our containers follow industry-standard "trade gallon" specifications established by the American National Standards Institute (ANSI Z60.1) for nursery stock
Volume Variations: Actual soil volume may vary due to plant root systems and growing medium settlement
Age Indicators: Container size primarily indicates plant age and maturity rather than liquid volume equivalents

Growing Conditions

Plant size can vary based on variety and growing conditions
Container size helps indicate plant maturity and establishment level
Larger containers generally mean more established root systems and faster landscape establishment

Seasonal Availability

Bare root plants are available seasonally when dormant
Container plants are available throughout the growing season
Specific varieties may have limited availability in certain sizes

Questions?

For questions about specific plant sizes or availability, please contact our plant experts who can help you choose the right size for your landscape needs.

Plant Profile & Growing Essentials

Cold hardy, Deer-resistant, Disease resistant, Evergreen, Fast-growing, Fragrant, and Drought resistant

Specifications

Botanical Name

Thuja standishii x plicata 'Green Giant'
Height

40-50 ft
Width

8-12 ft
Growing Zones

5-8
Sunlight
- Full sun
- Partial shade
Growth Rate

Fast
Leaf Color
- Green
Does Not Ship To

AK, CT, HI, ID, MT

Planting & Care Instructions

Where to Plant

Sunlight: Thuja Green Giant thrives in full sun, requiring at least 6 hours of direct light daily for dense, healthy growth. While partial shade is acceptable, it often results in thinner foliage and a slower overall growth rate. In hotter USDA Zones like 8 and 9, providing some relief from the intense afternoon sun can help protect the plant from heat stress.
Soil: This variety is exceptionally adaptable to various conditions, including heavy clay and sandy soils, provided they are well-drained. It is critical to avoid sites where water collects, as Green Giants are susceptible to root rot in waterlogged environments.

Watering Requirements

During the first year, water your trees deeply and regularly to help the root system establish, aiming for about an inch of water per week. Once established, the Green Giant is remarkably drought tolerant, but consistent moisture remains key to maintaining lush, vibrant foliage. Inconsistent watering during dry spells is a primary cause of foliage browning or overall plant stress.

Pruning Tips

This variety naturally maintains a stately pyramidal habit, so extensive pruning is rarely required for the health of the tree. If you want to shape your privacy hedge or control its height, do so in early spring or mid-summer before new growth begins to harden. Think of pruning like a light haircut that directs the plant's energy into denser growth rather than wild, leggy branches.

Fertilizer Needs

Apply a balanced, slow-release fertilizer in early spring just as new growth begins to emerge to support its famous rocket-like growth rate. Avoid fertilizing late in the growing season, particularly with high-nitrogen products, as this can stimulate tender new growth that will not harden off in time for winter frost. Proper spring feeding ensures the tree has the nutrients necessary to resist pests like bagworms and environmental stressors.

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Growing Zones 5-8

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The "Overnight" Privacy Solution for Your Landscape

Imagine reclaiming your backyard sanctuary in just a few short seasons. The Thuja Green Giant Arborvitae isn't just a tree; it’s the fastest, most reliable route to a lush, living wall. Whether you’re blocking a nosy neighbor, buffering street noise, or creating a windbreak, the Green Giant delivers the dense, evergreen coverage you need with a speed that seems almost magical. As one of the most sought-after privacy trees on the market, it turns "exposed" into "enclosed" faster than almost any other evergreen.

Why Gardeners Choose the Green Giant

Rocket-Like Growth Rate: You don't have time to wait decades for privacy. The Green Giant is famous for its vigor, capable of shooting up 3 to 5 feet per year once established. This hybrid vigor means a small investment today becomes a towering privacy hedge in a fraction of the time compared to traditional arborvitae.

Bulletproof Hardiness: Forget the finicky Leyland Cypress that succumbs to disease in the heat. The Green Giant is a tough-as-nails hybrid (a cross between Western Red Cedar and Japanese Arborvitae) that laughs at humidity, resists drought once established, and stands strong against heavy snow loads. From the humid soils of Georgia to the chilly winds of Michigan, this tree adapts and thrives.

Deer Resistance: For many of us, deer are the ultimate garden pest. While no plant is 100% deer-proof in a famine, the Green Giant is significantly more deer resistant than its cousins. Its foliage is less palatable, meaning your hedge stays green and full, not stripped bare to the trunk.

Growing Success: Positioning & Care

Sun & Soil Mastery: Your Green Giant craves sunlight. Plant it where it can soak up at least 6 hours of full sun a day for that iconic, dense growth. It’s incredibly forgiving regarding soil, tolerating heavy clays and sandy loams alike, provided they drain well.

Zones & Hardiness: Thriving in USDA Zones 5–8, this tree handles the swing from freezing winters to scorching summers with grace.

Mature Size: Plan for grandeur. This is not a small shrub. At maturity, a Green Giant can reach 40–60 feet tall and 12–18 feet wide. It creates a monumental backdrop for your landscape.

Seasonal Interest & Care

Year-Round Emerald Beauty: While deciduous trees leave you exposed in winter, the Green Giant keeps its rich, fern-like foliage all year. In colder zones, you might notice a natural bronzing on the tips during winter—don't panic! This is a normal protective reaction to the cold; they will brighten back to a vibrant spring green as temperatures rise.

Watering for Success: The "Sleep, Creep, Leap" rule applies here. Water deeply and regularly during the first year to establish the deep taproot. Once that root system is locked in, your trees become remarkably drought-tolerant.

Strategic Placement & Spacing

The Privacy Screen: To create that solid "living wall," space your Green Giants 5 to 6 feet apart. This allows the lower branches to interlock quickly, shutting out views and noise.

The Windbreak: If you are planting for wind protection or a more natural look, give them 8 to 12 feet of room. This spacing allows each tree to develop its classic pyramidal form fully.

Pro Tip: Avoid the "soldier row" look by planting in a staggered "zig-zag" pattern. This creates a thicker, more sound-absorbing barrier faster than a single straight line.

Ready to Reclaim Your Yard?

There is no better time to start your privacy project than now. Every season you wait is a season of lost growth. Order your Thuja Green Giant Arborvitae today, and watch your landscape transform into the private retreat you deserve.

Frequently Asked Questions

How fast does Thuja Green Giant grow per year?

Thuja Green Giant typically grows 3 to 5 feet per year once established. This exceptional hybrid vigor allows it to create a dense privacy screen much faster than traditional arborvitae or other evergreen varieties.

How far apart to plant Green Giant Arborvitae?

For a solid privacy hedge, space Green Giant Arborvitae 5 to 6 feet apart to allow branches to interlock quickly. If planting a windbreak or a more natural screen, space trees 8 to 12 feet apart to accommodate their mature width.

What are the best growing zones for Green Giant Arborvitae?

Green Giant Arborvitae thrives in USDA Hardiness Zones 5–8, though it can sometimes succeed in Zone 9 with proper care. It is highly valued in these regions for its ability to tolerate heat, humidity, and heavy snow.

Are Green Giant Arborvitae really deer resistant?

Yes, Green Giant Arborvitae is considered significantly more deer resistant than other arborvitae varieties, such as Emerald Green. While no plant is 100% deer-proof, its foliage is much less palatable to deer, making it a reliable choice for areas with high pest pressure.

Why is my Green Giant Arborvitae turning brown?

Green Giant Arborvitae may turn brown due to winter bronzing, drought stress, or poor drainage leading to root rot. While winter bronzing is a natural, temporary reaction to cold, persistent browning may indicate a need for adjusted watering or pest inspection for bagworms.

Can Thuja Green Giant grow in shade?

Thuja Green Giant performs best in full sun, requiring at least six hours of direct sunlight daily for dense growth. While it can tolerate partial shade, too much shade often results in thinner foliage and a slower growth rate.

When is the best time to plant Thuja Green Giant?

The best time to plant Thuja Green Giant is in the early spring or fall. Planting during these cooler windows allows the tree to establish a strong root system before the stress of summer heat or extreme winter freezes.

Holy cow! Super healthy plants!

This is second time ordering from Nature Hills. And I may just be an arborvitae convert. These are beautiful plants!! So healthy and robust, look like they were dug and dropped in pots just before shipping. I ordered another five, and the North Pole arborvitae are in the way and I will get some Emeralds in spring. Super source for trees! Thanks Nature Hills. 🙏�

Dear Janie,

Thank you so much for sharing your wonderful experience with us! We’re thrilled to hear that your arborvitae arrived healthy and robust – there’s truly nothing like that fresh-from-the-earth feeling. It’s great to know you’re becoming an arborvitae convert; Emeralds make a beautiful addition, and we’re confident they’ll thrive in your garden come spring.

If you ever have questions about planting or caring for your new trees, don’t hesitate to reach out. We also have detailed planting guides and care tips on our website that many customers find helpful, especially when transitioning Arborvitae varieties or managing space with bigger additions like the North Pole.

Thanks again for choosing Nature Hills for your green adventures. We can’t wait to watch your garden flourish!

Rooting for your garden’s success,
Your Nature Hills Plant Care Team

giant arborvitae

I believe I ordered two of these a few years back and they are huge now. Are these the deer proof variety. I know my other ones had to be. Thanks

Hello Linn,

Thank you so much for sharing your experience with your giant arborvitae! It’s wonderful to hear that your trees have grown so tall and thriving over the years. Regarding your question about deer resistance, while giant arborvitae are generally not known to be completely deer-proof, they tend to be less favored by deer compared to some other plants. However, strong deer pressure can sometimes still lead to browsing damage. If deer have been an issue in your area, you might consider additional protective measures like deer repellents, fencing, or applying spray deterrents during peak feeding seasons.

If you ever want recommendations for truly deer-resistant varieties or other planting ideas, we’d be happy to help! Thank you again for trusting Nature Hills for your gardening journey.

Rooting for your garden’s success,
Your Nature Hills Plant Care Team

giant arborvitae

I believe I ordered two of these a few years back and they are huge now. Are these the deer proof variety. I know my other ones had to be. Thanks

Hello Linn,

Thank you so much for reaching out and sharing your experience with your giant arborvitae! We’re delighted to hear that your plants have grown so well over the years—that’s the kind of success story we love to hear. Regarding your question on whether they are deer proof: giant arborvitae are favored by deer relatively less compared to many other plants and are often considered deer-resistant, but no plant is entirely deer proof in all situations. Deer preferences can vary depending on location and food availability.

To help protect your beautiful arborvitae, you might consider using natural repellents or physical barriers especially during seasons when deer are more active. If you need recommendations on deer deterrent products or maintenance tips for your arborvitae, please don’t hesitate to reach out, and we’ll be glad to assist you.

Thank you again for taking the time to write to us. It's wonderful to have avid gardeners like you as part of the Nature Hills family.

Rooting for your garden’s success,
Your Nature Hills Plant Care Team

Green Giant Arborvitae

Green Giant Arborvitae

Dear Michael K.,

Thank you so much for sharing your experience with our Green Giant Arborvitae! We're delighted to hear about your interest in this wonderful tree. These Arborvitae are known for their fast growth and beautiful dense foliage, making them an excellent choice for privacy screens or landscaping accents.

If you have any questions about planting, care, or maintenance—such as sunlight preferences, soil conditions, or watering routines—please don’t hesitate to reach out. We also offer detailed care guides on our website that can help you get the most out of your Green Giant Arborvitae.

Wishing you happy planting,
The Nature Hills Plant Experts

Green Giant Arborvitae

Green Giant Arborvitae

Dear Michael K.,

Thank you so much for taking the time to share your thoughts about your Green Giant Arborvitae. We’re delighted to hear your interest in this wonderful, fast-growing evergreen—it truly makes a striking addition to any landscape with its rich, lush foliage.

If you have any questions about planting, caring for, or maintaining your Arborvitae, please don’t hesitate to reach out. Many gardeners find regular watering especially important during the first year, along with ensuring well-drained soil to keep your plant healthy and vibrant. You might also find our care guides on Colonies of Green Giant Arborvitae helpful for year-round tips.

We appreciate your trust in Nature Hills for your planting journey and look forward to supporting you with all your gardening needs.

Rooting for your garden’s success,
Your Nature Hills Plant Care Team

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Under $50	$9.99
$50 - $99.99	$14.99
$100 - $149.99	$16.99
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$199+	FREE

Green Giant Arborvitae

Thuja x 'Green Giant'

Plant Sentry™

Delivery and Shipping

Specifications