Full Speed A Hedge
Thuja occidentalis. Need a cedar hedge in a hurry? Here's the answer! Very fast growing, hardy and densely branched, 'American Pillar' is ideal for hedging with its desirable columnar form. The tall, narrow habit requires no pruning, allowing a more natural and carefree feel. This was very popular last year and we could not keep it in stock. Very hardy and it does well in cold Canadian climates. Order early this year to avoid disappointment. Grows to a height of 15-20', 3-5' wide. In full sun, it can grow 2-3' per year once established. We ship in a 1 litre pot, approximately 12" in height. Evergreen.
Spring Planting: this product will be shipped late April through May according to hardiness zone.
Scroll down for more details and growing information.
Sold as: Pkg of 1
Details
Growing Information
Upon Arrival:
Bare Root Trees & Shrubs need to be kept moist at all times. Once your plant arrives open the bag it came in and immerse the whole plant in water for several hours before potting or planting. The roots will re-hydrate and enable new bud growth to develop successfully.
Trees & Shrubs can be planted as soon as you can dig in your garden in early spring. You do not have to wait until frosts are over. These shrubs are hardy and can withstand cold temperatures. If you cannot plant within a day or two, these plants should be potted up into bigger containers, kept in a bright location and watered regularly. When planting out, gently remove the plant from the pot.
If it is very cold in your area these plants should be hardened off before planted outside. Either gradually acclimatize the plant in a part sun location outdoors for a few hours a day or if you choose to plant, it is recommended to cover with straw or an old blanket if a hard frost threatens.
If you are unable to plant immediately, open the box to expose the stems but do not remove the wrapping around the roots, as this preserves moisture. Store the shrubs upright in a cool, humid, dimly lit location. Before planting, remove all packaging material, then soak the entire plant, stems and roots, in a pail of water for several hours. At no time, should the roots ever be exposed to sun or wind, or be allowed to dry out. Trim off any broken roots or branches before planting.
Choosing the Site:
Some shrubs and trees will require full sun that is at least six to eight hours a day, preferably afternoon sun. Please see individual listings for light requirements for each shrub, vine or tree. Choose an open site where breezes will blow through. This will aid in drying the foliage, preventing many fungal and viral diseases. Ideal spacing will enable trees and shrubs to grow more successful with less competition for water and nutrients. Take note of the mature size of your tree or shrub which will allow proper room to grow in height as well as width. Snow provides excellent insulation for even the most tender plant, so consider a spot where snow may gather naturally. The site should be well-drained. If water tends to puddle in the area, either choose a different site, or raise the bed by at least 5 cm (2 inches) by adding organic matter.
The Soil:
Most shrubs and trees grow best in a rich, loamy soil with sufficient drainage. Loamy soil is basically a good combination of sand, clay, organic matter, and silt. To help soil keep rich, a yearly application of top dressing consisting of well-rotted manure or kitchen compost is advised. Most plants are adaptable to a neutral soil pH of 6.8-7.2, while some require slightly higher or lower levels which are noted in each individual listing.
Planting:
Dig a hole that is about 6 inches deeper and wider than the roots themselves, suited to the shape of the roots. Sometimes roots will be growing only in one direction, so dig an oval-shaped hole to suit. Dig a round hole if roots are spreading in all directions. Mix in some organic matter with the soil from the hole. A handful of bone meal will aid in root development. Lay a stick across the hole so you will know exactly where the surface level will be. Make a small mound of soil on which to sit the roots while ensuring they are spread out. Comb out the roots with your fingers to keep them from crossing. Place the shrub or tree so that the crown is about an inch below soil level. This is approximate, the general rule is that the harsher the climate, the deeper the crown should be planted.
Fill the hole about 2⁄3 full. Pack down soil with your feet, and water. After water has soaked in, fill hole and repeat packing and watering. This will ensure that there are no air pockets around the roots. Create a ‘catch-basin’ around the edge of the hole to catch water. Water again the following day with a water-soluble 10-52-10 fertilizer (the high middle number aids in root development), or water with manure or compost tea. You may want to mulch halfway up the stems for the first couple of weeks to prevent drying out. Water and fertilize this way once a week for the next three weeks.
Planting Full Speed A Hedge: The Full Speed A Hedge® American Pillar Arborvitae can be planted in any soil or air condition, but it needs to be placed in a spot that receives full sun (6 to 8 hours of sunlight per day). Plant in a hole twice as wide, but just as deep as the root ball. There is no need to amend the soil. Water thoroughly after planting to establish roots.
To Create a Privacy Hedge: Plant 2.5' apart. 8 plants will equal 20 feet of privacy.
Watering: This tree can tolerate wet or dry conditions. Be sure to water the tree weekly in its young life to ensure proper growth. Try to maintain even moisture for the first year.
Pruning: This tree does not require any pruning, fertilizing or pest or disease management. If you want to reduce the size, you can prune off the top once it reaches over 10 feet. This will stunt the growth and allow you to customize your screen size.