Choosing the perfect evergreen for your landscape can feel overwhelming, especially when faced with similar options like the Green Giant and Emerald Green arborvitae. Both are popular choices known for their vibrant color and fast growth, but subtle differences make one a better fit for certain situations than the other. This comprehensive comparison will help you decide which arborvitae reigns supreme in your garden.
What are the Key Differences Between Green Giant and Emerald Green Arborvitae?
The most significant differences between Green Giant and Emerald Green arborvitae lie in their growth habit, mature size, and overall hardiness. While both offer stunning evergreen beauty, their distinct characteristics cater to different landscaping needs.
Green Giant Arborvitae (Thuja standishii x plicata 'Green Giant'): This hybrid boasts rapid growth, often adding 2-3 feet annually. It develops into a tall, narrow pyramidal shape, making it ideal for creating privacy screens or windbreaks. Its mature size is substantially larger than the Emerald Green, reaching heights of 40-60 feet and widths of 10-15 feet.
Emerald Green Arborvitae (Thuja occidentalis 'Smaragd'): This cultivar is known for its compact, columnar form and slower growth rate (1-2 feet per year). It maintains a more consistently narrow and upright profile, making it suitable for smaller spaces or formal landscaping designs. Its mature size is significantly smaller, typically reaching heights of 12-15 feet and widths of 3-4 feet.
How Do Their Growth Habits Compare?
Growth Rate: The Green Giant is a champion in speed, adding considerably more height and width each year compared to the Emerald Green. This rapid growth can be advantageous for quickly establishing a privacy screen or filling a large space, but it also requires more frequent pruning to maintain its shape. The Emerald Green, on the other hand, provides a slower, more manageable growth pace, perfect for those who prefer less maintenance or have limited space.
Mature Size: The difference in mature size is dramatic. The Green Giant's towering presence demands ample space, whereas the Emerald Green remains compact and suitable for smaller gardens or foundation plantings. Consider the long-term implications; a Green Giant planted too close to a house could cause structural issues or overshadow other plants.
Which Arborvitae is Easier to Maintain?
Pruning Needs: Due to its faster growth, the Green Giant requires more regular pruning to maintain its desired shape and prevent it from becoming overgrown. The Emerald Green's slower growth reduces the frequency of pruning, making it a lower-maintenance option.
Disease Resistance: Both cultivars are relatively resistant to diseases, but proper spacing and good air circulation are crucial for preventing problems. Overcrowding can lead to fungal issues in both.
What About Hardiness and Climate Considerations?
Both Green Giant and Emerald Green arborvitae are hardy in a wide range of climates, but there are subtle differences. Green Giant generally tolerates a wider range of soil conditions and slightly colder temperatures than Emerald Green. Always check the specific hardiness zones recommended for each cultivar before planting to ensure success in your region.
Which Arborvitae is Best for Privacy Screens?
For creating a quick and effective privacy screen, the Green Giant’s rapid growth is a significant advantage. Its taller mature height provides better screening in a shorter amount of time. However, the Emerald Green can be used for privacy screens, too, though it will take longer to reach a screening height.
Which Arborvitae is Better for Small Spaces?
The Emerald Green is clearly the winner for smaller spaces. Its compact size makes it ideal for foundation plantings, narrow borders, or smaller yards where a large evergreen would be overwhelming.
Which Arborvitae is Right for My Landscape?
The best choice ultimately depends on your specific needs and preferences:
- Choose Green Giant if: You need a fast-growing screen, have ample space, and are willing to undertake more regular pruning.
- Choose Emerald Green if: You prefer a slower-growing, more compact evergreen with less maintenance, and have limited space.
By considering these factors and weighing the pros and cons of each cultivar, you can confidently select the perfect arborvitae to enhance the beauty and functionality of your landscape. Remember to consult local nurseries for advice tailored to your specific region and soil conditions.
