How often should I water my newly installed trees?
We generally supply a watering system with your installation if you are purchasing more than 10-trees at once. The root balls of the field grown trees should be fully saturated with water once per week from approximately May through October depending on your frost dates. The root balls of containerized trees should be fully saturated 2-3 times per week depending on the temperature and soil type during the growing season outlined above.
While our watering system is generally fool proof and is intended to be a “permanent” system, it must be closely monitored on watering days to ensure that the trees are receiving an adequate amount of water. Once the trees and watering system are in your possession, you are solely responsible for them. We are always here to help with additional questions or concerns.
What does the irrigation system include and how does it work?
The irrigation system includes one water time attached to a standard 3/4” hose bib. In addition to the timer, tubing and emitters are installed under the trees assuming the trees are in close proximity to one another (5’-8’). We do not supply a connection pipe or hose from the water source to the piping under the trees or from one area of trees to another. The optimal situation would be to have a stand pipe to supply the water on a separate zone. In most cases a standard garden hose completes the connection from the timer to the piping under the trees. We do not supply the connection hose - we only supply the timer, piping under the trees, and 2-gph emitters. The water supply stays on during the growing season (April - November) containerized trees are thoroughly watered twice per week and field grown trees are thoroughly watered once per week during dry conditions. If the trees are receiving sufficient water from rain events, the additional water may not be needed.
The provided timer cannot be exposed to freezing temperatures. We recommend turning water supply off and bringing timer indoors in early November and re-connecting late April. Refer to the first guidelines pertaining to your specific area for more accurate guidelines.
How fast does Excelsa Arborvitae grow?
Excelsa Arborvitae grows up to 2–3 feet per year under the right conditions, similar to our Green Giant Arborvitae. The difference comes at maturity. Excelsa tops out at about 20–30 feet, making it more manageable for smaller spaces while still delivering rapid coverage.
What's the difference between Excelsa and Green Giant Arborvitae?
Both are hardy, fast-growing evergreens ideal for privacy screens, but Excelsa stays smaller and denser. It matures at 20–30 feet tall compared to 50–60 feet for a Green Giant, with tighter branching that provides better close-range coverage.
Is Excelsa Arborvitae the same as Thuja plicata?
Yes. Excelsa is a cultivated variety of Thuja plicata (Western Redcedar). It has been selected for its upright, compact growth habit and refined foliage, making it ideal for residential and commercial landscaping.
Do you have Excelsa Arborvitae seedlings?
No. We sell Excelsa Arborvitae as larger, balled & burlapped trees for immediate landscape impact and higher survival rates.
Do you sell Excelsa Arborvitae seeds?
No. We focus on supplying mature trees ready for installation. Seeds are not a practical way to establish a privacy screen due to the slow, unpredictable growth process.
When is the best time to prune Excelsa Arborvitae?
Like Green Giants, Excelsas require minimal pruning. If shaping or height control is needed, prune in late spring or early summer after new growth has emerged. Avoid heavy pruning into old wood.
What type of soil does Excelsa Arborvitae need?
Excelsa thrives in well-drained soils rich in organic matter, but it adapts to a wide range of conditions. Avoid planting in sites that remain consistently waterlogged.
Can Excelsa Arborvitae grow in acidic soil?
Yes. Excelsa tolerates both acidic soils (below 6.0) and neutral soils (6.0–8.0).
Will you plant the trees for me?
We offer planting services within 30 miles of our nursery in Galena, MD. Outside of that, we happily offer shipping, but planting services will be up to the customer.
How big does Excelsa Arborvitae get?
Excelsa typically reaches 20–30 feet in height and 8–10 feet in width. This smaller mature size compared to a Green Giant makes it perfect for tighter spaces.
Can Excelsa Arborvitae grow in rocky soil?
Yes, provided the site has good drainage. Excelsa's adaptable root system can establish in rocky soils as long as it isn't compacted or waterlogged.
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