50 Eastern Arborvitae Seeds - Thuja occidentalis Northern White Cedar Evergreen Tree

Eastern Arborvitae (Thuja occidentalis), also known as Northern White Cedar, is a hardy evergreen tree prized for its dense, conical form and soft, scale-like foliage. Its rich green color and natural pyramidal shape make it an excellent choice for privacy screens, hedges, windbreaks, and specimen plantings in home landscapes. This slow-growing conifer is adaptable to a range of soil types and is well-suited to cooler climates.

Growing Eastern Arborvitae from seeds is a rewarding project for gardeners looking to add a long-lived evergreen to their property. The seeds can be started indoors or outdoors and will develop into sturdy trees over time.

Plant Features

• Dense, evergreen foliage with a pleasant aroma
• Naturally conical growth habit, ideal for hedges and screens
• Adaptable to a variety of soil conditions
• Provides year-round structure and cover for wildlife
• Slow to moderate growth rate, easy to maintain

Growing Information

• Botanical Name: Thuja occidentalis
• Plant Type: Evergreen conifer tree
• Sunlight: Full sun to partial shade
• Soil: Moist, well-drained soil; tolerates a range of soil types
• Water Requirements: Moderate; keep soil consistently moist during establishment
• Growth Habit: Upright, conical
• USDA Hardiness Zones: 3-7
• Mature Height: 20-40 feet (varies with growing conditions)
• Spacing: 3-5 feet for hedges; 10-15 feet for specimen trees

Planting & Care

To start Eastern Arborvitae seeds, cold stratify them for 30-60 days before sowing. Sow seeds on the surface of a moist, well-draining seed-starting mix and press them lightly into the soil; do not cover deeply as light aids germination. Keep the medium consistently moist and maintain a temperature around 65-70°F (18-21°C). Germination can be slow and uneven, often taking several weeks to a few months.

Once seedlings have developed several sets of true leaves, transplant them into individual pots and grow them on in a sheltered location. Gradually acclimate young plants to outdoor conditions before planting in their permanent location. Choose a site with adequate sunlight and well-drained soil. Water regularly during the first few years to help establish a deep root system. Apply a layer of mulch around the base to conserve moisture and suppress weeds, but keep mulch away from the trunk.

What's Included

50 Eastern Arborvitae (Thuja occidentalis) seeds.