Thuja orientalis is an evergreen plant that is native to eastern Asia. It is a member of the Cupressaceae family and is often used as a ornamental plant in gardens. The plant has dark green leaves and produces small, brown cones. The cones contain seeds that are dispersed by the wind. The plant grows best in moist, well-drained soils and can tolerate shade.
Related plant:
Thuja Plicata
About soil condition, Thuja orientalis prefers rich, moist, well-drained soils in full sun to partial shade. It also does well in average, medium wet, well-drained soils in full sun to partial shade. It should not be allowed to dry out.
Not too different with other evergreens, Thuja orientalis requires full sun to partial sun in order to maintain its green coloration. In shadier areas, the leaves may begin to yellow and the plant may become leggy.
The temperature condition for Thuja orientalis is very important. If the temperature is too high, the plant will not be able to grow properly. The optimum temperature range for growth is between 15 and 25 degrees Celsius. During the day, the temperature should not exceed 30 degrees Celsius.
Ideal humidity condition for this plant is 50-70%. However, it is tolerant to a wide range of humidity, as long as it is not too dry or too wet. If the air is too dry, the leaves will start to turn brown and drop off. If the air is too wet, the plant is susceptible to fungal diseases.
The fertilizer, this type of plant need, is one that is high in phosphorus and low in nitrogen, with a 4-8-4 or 5-10-5 NPK ratio being ideal. As for the fertilizer, one that is organic and slow-release is best, such as bone meal, fish emulsion, or manure tea. When it comes to the roots, they should be kept moist but not soggy, and well-draining soil is a must. If the roots become too wet, they will rot, and if they become too dry, the plant will suffer.
Pruning is an important aspect of Thuja orientalis care. It is best to prune in the late winter or early spring, before new growth appears. Cut away any dead or dying branches, as well as any that are crossing or rubbing against each other. You can also prune to shape the plant, or to encourage new growth. When pruning, be sure to use sharp, clean pruning shears.
Propagation of Thuja orientalis can be done through softwood or hardwood cuttings, as well as by root division. To propagate through softwood or hardwood cuttings, take a cutting from the desired plant in late spring or early summer. The cutting should be 6-8 inches long and have several nodes. Dip the cutting in rooting hormone and plant in a pot filled with moistened perlite or sand. Place the pot in a plastic bag to create a humid environment and set in a bright, indirect light. Keep the soil moist but not soggy and soon you should see new growth. To propagate through root division, dig up the plant in early spring or fall and carefully divide the roots into 2-3 sections. Each section should have several roots and leafy shoots. Replant the divisions immediately and water well.
Usually, the plant growth rate during the spring and summer months, when the plant is receiving the most sunlight. However, growth will typically slows down during the fall and winter. As long as the plant is receiving adequate sunlight and water, it should continue to grow throughout the year.
Common problems for this kind of plant are powdery mildew, root rot, and stem canker. These problems are usually caused by too much water or poor drainage. To avoid these problems, make sure to plant thuja orientalis in well-drained soil and water it only when the soil is dry.
Source:
Platycladus orientalis (syn. Thuja orientalis), Oriental arborvitae ...
Oriental Arborvitae (Platycladus orientalis [f. Thuja orientalis] )
Thuja orientalis (Arborvitae) - American University of Beirut
