Compare Arborvitae Tree Types for Windbreak Planting

Arborvitae trees make excellent windbreaks to protect homes, gardens, and livestock from harsh winds. With over 50 cultivars, they come in a diverse range of sizes, shapes, and growth habits. Choosing the right arborvitae variety is key to creating an effective, long-lasting wind buffer in your landscape.

When selecting arborvitae trees for a new windbreak, consider their mature height, growth rate, climate adaptability, and deer resistance. Account for the available space and your regional conditions.

Height Considerations When Selecting Arborvitae

Taller arborvitae varieties make the best choices for primary windbreak rows. With heights up to 60 feet, columnar types like Green Giant, Fastigiata, and Pyramidalis have the size to block strong wind gusts. They are ideal for the windward side of the windbreak.

Shorter arborvitae, topping out around 15 feet, are best used on the leeward side and between taller trees. Emerald Green, Little Giant, and Holmstrup are compact types that allow more air flow while providing a secondary wind buffer.

Benefits of Using Tall vs. Short Arborvitae

Tall arborvitae create a solid wall that forces wind up and over a windbreak. But allowing some filtered windflow prevents problematic turbulence. Mixing heights is most effective.

Shorter varieties planted on the leeward side filter and redirect winds. They also provide shelter if the wind direction changes. Include a blend of sizes in your design.

Growth Rate Variations Among Arborvitae Cultivars

Faster growing arborvitae establish an effective windbreak more quickly after planting. But they often require more frequent pruning to maintain their shape.

Some fast-growing varieties include:

• Green Giant - Grows 3+ feet per year when young
• Fastigiata - Tall columnar form reaches 10 feet in 5 years
• Holmstrup - Gains 2 feet per year once established

Slower growing arborvitae take longer to create a tight windscreen, but hold their shape better with less pruning:

• American Arborvitae - Grows just 12" per year
• Emerald - Around 1 foot of growth annually
• Techny - Adds 1-2 feet height per year

Climate Adaptability of Different Arborvitae Types

Always choose an arborvitae variety suited to your planting zone's climate. While arborvitae tolerate cold winters, heat and drought tolerance varies.

American Arborvitae withstands cold and partial shade. But it requires evenly moist soil. Emerald Green also needs regular watering.

For hot, dry regions, DeGroot's Spire and Holmstrup are more drought tolerant picks. Techny Arborvitae handles humidity well.

Review each cultivar's specifics and choose ones adapted to your conditions for healthy growth.

Proper Spacing When Planting an Arborvitae Windbreak

Allow enough space between arborvitae trees for good air flow and growth when planning windbreak spacing. As a rule of thumb, leave:

• 6-10 feet between smaller varieties at maturity
• 10-16 feet between large, towering types

For multi-row windbreaks, space rows 6 to 20 feet apart depending on arborvitae heights. Wider spacing between rows reduces snow drifts.

Pruning and Shaping Needs for Arborvitae

Regular pruning improves structure and aesthetic appeal of arborvitae in windbreak plantings. It also enhances winter wind flow.

Columnar varieties like Emerald Green and Fastigiata need frequent shearing to maintain their narrow shapes. Allow pyramidal types to fill out more naturally.

Always prune arborvitae in spring or early summer. Hand trim inner branches to open up air flow. Avoid heavy shearing that removes top leader shoots.

Deer Resistance of Different Arborvitae Varieties

In areas with high deer populations, the level of deer resistance matters in arborvitae selection. While deer tend to avoid arborvitae, some varieties are more vulnerable.

Emerald Green and Techny resist deer browsing with their pungent foliage. American Arborvitae is also unappealing to deer.

Globe and dwarf arborvitae are more prone to deer damage. Take preventative measures like fencing in yards with recurrent deer issues.

Popular Arborvitae Varieties for Windbreaks

Here are some top arborvitae choices that make exceptional wind-blocking trees:

Green Giant

- Very fast growing columnar form

- Reaches 60 feet tall by 15 feet wide

- Withstands cold, adapts to various soils

Holmstrup

- Dense pyramidal shape up to 20 feet

- Medium growth rate of 2 feet per year

- Tolerates drought, humidity, and deer

Emerald Green

- Tight, narrow columnar habit

- Grows 1 foot yearly to 15-20 feet high

- Needs regular pruning and ample moisture

Windbreak Design Factors Beyond Tree Selection

While choosing the right arborvitae varieties is key, proper windbreak design also considers:

• Location - Place perpendicular to prevailing winds
• Soil preparation - Deep tilling improves root growth
• Fertilization - Use a balanced organic fertilizer when planting
• Mulching - Helps retain moisture and control weeds

Thoughtful planning and care when installing your arborvitae windbreak will maximize its wind-blocking effectiveness and longevity.

With their dense, conical forms, arborvitae are exceptional choices for living windbreaks. But the right variety depends on your climate, space, and specific needs.

By comparing height, growth habits, and environmental resilience, you can select the ideal arborvitae trees to shelter your property from gusty winds.

Combine fast growing types like Green Giant with compact varieties such as Emerald Green. Proper planting techniques and ongoing care will also ensure your arborvitae windbreak thrives.