My personal experience with Golden arborvitae (Thuja occidentalis ‘Aurea’) is that I planted a ‘Sunkist’ variety in my garden last year, and in spring, when its leaves glowed golden yellow in the sunlight, it impressed everyone. Since then, even the neighbours have been asking where to get one!
Varieties of Golden arborvitae and their characteristics
Golden arborvitae, that is *Thuja occidentalis* ‘Sunkist’ and ‘Golden Globe’ varieties, can be true gems in your garden.
In my opinion, the most beautiful is the ‘Sunkist’, whose golden-yellow leaves give the garden a radiant glow in spring and summer. The ‘Golden Globe’ stands out with its rounded shape and dense foliage, making it a perfect choice for smaller gardens or even as a container plant.
Among the varieties, the ‘Holmstrup’ is also popular, as it has a narrower, columnar shape, which looks great in rows or as a hedge. I recommend the ‘Brabant’ variety if you want a lovely hedge, as it grows quickly and has dense foliage. But have you ever thought about how a Golden arborvitae can affect the atmosphere of your garden?
How to plant and propagate Golden arborvitae
Planting Golden arborvitae is really straightforward. I suggest planting in early spring or early autumn, when the soil is still warm but the air is cooler. Choose a sunny spot where the plant receives at least 6-8 hours of sunlight daily. Dig the planting hole twice as deep and wide as the root ball. Fill the hole with good quality compost and place the plant in it.
Propagation is also simple: the best method is by cuttings.
In my opinion, the best time is summer, when the young shoots have started to harden off. Cut 10-15 cm long shoots, remove the lower leaves, then place them in water or rooting hormone before planting. Have you ever considered how exciting it can be to propagate your own plants?
Growth habits and maturation period of Golden arborvitae
The growth habits of Golden arborvitae are truly remarkable. These plants generally grow 30-60 cm per year, but this can vary depending on environmental conditions. I have found that with proper watering and nutrient supply, growth can be even faster.
Their maturation period is usually 3-5 years, when the plant reaches the desired height and shape. It’s worth monitoring their development because if you plant them too densely, they won’t be able to grow properly. What do you think, how important is the right spacing between plants?
Golden arborvitae is not only beautiful but also relatively resistant to pests and diseases. I recommend checking the leaves occasionally to avoid problems. Golden arborvitae can truly be a wonderful choice for your garden if you care for it properly!
Grafting Golden arborvitae: How to do it right?
Golden arborvitae, also known as Thuja occidentalis ‘Sunkist’, is a beautiful and popular ornamental plant found in many gardens.
When grafting, it’s worth noting that the best time is spring, when the plants are actively growing. I recommend selecting young shoots to use as scions. During grafting, it’s important that the plants are healthy, as diseased plants cannot pass on good traits.
An interesting question: have you ever tried grafting? What was your experience?
Pruning Golden arborvitae: When and how?
Pruning is essential for Golden arborvitae to maintain their beautiful shape and health.
In my opinion, the best time to prune is early spring, before the plants start producing new shoots. During pruning, it’s advisable to remove dry, diseased, or overly dense shoots. I recommend always following the plant’s natural shape and not cutting too much at once, as this can stress the plant.
Diseases and pests of Golden arborvitae: How to protect your plants?
Unfortunately, Golden arborvitae is not immune to diseases and pests. The most common problems include
black spot leaf disease and
fusarium infection. I believe prevention is the best defence, so it’s important to keep the plants in a healthy environment.
If you encounter pests such as
aphids or
spider mites, it’s worth using biological control methods, like sticky yellow traps. I recommend monitoring your plants closely and acting promptly if you notice any issues!
Watering Golden arborvitae: What’s the secret?
Watering is key to maintaining the health of Golden arborvitae.
I suggest watering young plants thoroughly once a week, while mature specimens may only need watering every two weeks, especially during dry spells. It’s important not to overwater, as this can lead to root rot.
An interesting question: do you know how soil type affects watering habits? It’s worth considering that sandy soil dries out faster, while heavier soils retain moisture longer.
If you follow these tips and advice, I’m sure your Golden arborvitae will stay healthy and beautiful!
The fruit of Golden arborvitae
Golden arborvitae, or Thuja occidentalis ‘Sunkist’, is not really known for its fruit, but if it does produce any, they are usually small and cone-shaped.
In my opinion, the most important thing is not to expect too much from the fruit, as its main appeal lies in its stunning foliage. The amount of fruit varies but is generally insignificant. If it does appear, it shows as tiny, greenish-brown cones, which the trees start producing after 1-2 years of age.
Interestingly, the quality of the fruit can also vary. In the case of Golden arborvitae, the fruit doesn’t really affect the plant’s health or the beauty of its foliage. I recommend focusing more on plant care and providing the right environmental conditions rather than on the fruit. Imagine how much more impressive the lush, beautiful foliage is compared to a few small cones!
Flowering characteristics of Golden arborvitae
Golden arborvitae’s flowering is not very conspicuous, as the plant mainly captivates with its foliage. Golden arborvitae doesn’t flower like traditional flowering plants; instead, the male and female flowers appear as small, yellowish-green structures.
I believe this discreet flowering adds a certain elegance to the plant, as it doesn’t distract from the beautiful golden-yellow foliage.
Flowering usually occurs in spring, with the male flowers responsible for pollen production located at the tops of the trees. The female flowers hide within the foliage. An interesting question is how much flowering influences the ecosystem around the plants?
I have noticed that bees and other pollinating insects are attracted to these flowers, so flowering does contribute to the garden’s biodiversity.
Golden arborvitae is not only beautiful but also an incredibly versatile plant.
I recommend planting several specimens if you can, as the variations in colour shades and shapes are stunning. The foliage of Golden arborvitae retains its vibrant colour even under different light conditions, which is truly special.
Imagine the golden-yellow shimmer of the leaves in the sunlight — it’s almost magical! I think this plant is perfect for hedges because it grows quickly and shapes beautifully. Additionally, Golden arborvitae tolerates urban environments well, so if you live in a city, it’s worth considering planting it.
Golden arborvitae topic.
