Best Size Arborvitae to Plant

 Hi All,

I am looking to plant a new Emerald Arborvitae hedge next spring and am
wondering which would be better to purchase, the 2 or 3 year-old
transplants.  I have heard that because they are younger after a couple
of years the 2 year do at least as well as the larger 3 year.  Plus,
they cost less.  Any thoughts, experience with this?

Thanks much,

Mike

 
I don't mean to dodge the question, but does it snow where you live? Heavy,
wet snow sometimes?

 

Yes, but not frequently.  Maybe 2-3 times per year.

 
OK. I asked because the tall, slim arborvitae don't always hold up well with
heavy snow on their branches. It's not so much that they break, but they
assume new shapes that are difficult or impossible to correct. Sort of like
some people's hair when they first get out of bed.

 
The snow will be a problem.  Here it doesn't snow that much and
Arborvitae get ruined if not tied up.

Spring is a better time to plant.

--

Travis in Shoreline (just North of Seattle) Washington
USDA Zone 8
Sunset Zone 5