How to Grow White Cedar Tree - Plant Care & Tips

By NorwichGardener Team   /   2024

White cedar tree is one of the most popular trees in the world. It is a slow-growing tree that can reach up to 30 meters in height. The white cedar tree is native to North America and it is mostly found in the eastern part of the continent. The white cedar tree has a conical shape and its leaves are green in color. The white cedar tree is an evergreen tree and it is one of the longest-living trees in the world. The white cedar tree is mostly used for timber and it is also used in the manufacture of furniture.

How to Grow White Cedar Tree - Plant Care & Tips

Popular name

  • Arborvitae
  • Eastern white cedar
  • Northern white cedar
  • Swamp cedar
  • White cedar

Things to Know

  • The white cedar tree is a plant that can be found in North America.
  • The white cedar tree is also known as the American arborvitae.
  • The white cedar tree is a medium-sized tree that can grow to be between 40 and 60 feet tall.
  • The white cedar tree has dark green, scaled leaves that are between 1 and 3 inches long.
  • The white cedar tree produces small, brown cones that are between 1 and 2 inches long.
  • The white cedar tree is an important food source for many animals, including deer, rabbits, and rodents.
  • The white cedar tree is also an important nesting site for many birds, such as the great horned owl and the Cooper's hawk.
  • The white cedar tree is a popular choice for landscaping and can be used as a privacy hedge or windbreak.
  • The white cedar tree is a fast-growing tree and can be planted from seedlings or cuttings.
  • The white cedar tree is an evergreen tree and will retain its leaves year-round.

Related plant:
Hydrangea Runaway Bride Snow White

Planting Process

  1. For white cedar tree, first step is to choose a proper location. The tree grows best in full sun to partial shade.
  2. Choose an area that has good drainage.
  3. Test the soil in the chosen location. The ideal pH range for white cedar tree is 0 to 0.
  4. Dig a hole that is twice the width and depth of the tree’s root ball.
  5. Place the tree in the hole so that the root ball is level with the ground.
  6. Fill the hole with soil, tamping it down as you go.
  7. Water the tree deeply.
  8. Spread a 3-inch layer of mulch around the base of the tree, keeping it several inches away from the trunk.
  9. Fertilize the tree in early spring with a balanced fertilizer.
  10. water the tree regularly during the first growing season to help it establish a deep, extensive root system.

Related plant:
White Cherry Blossom

Soil Requirement

About soil condition, white cedar tree like acidic, sandy, well-drained to moist soils and does not tolerate compacted or waterlogged soils. It also cannot tolerate salt. It is adaptable to a range of soil types but prefers fertile, humus-rich soils.

Light requirement

Like the other trees, the white cedar tree needs sun to grow. It is a common misconception that cedar trees do not need much sun because they are often found in shady areas. However, cedar trees need at least 6 hours of sun each day to grow properly. If a cedar tree does not get enough sun, it will not grow as quickly as it should.

The Temperature

The temperature condition of the white cedar tree is essential for its growth. If the temperature condition is not ideal, the growth of the white cedar tree will be stunted. For optimal growth, the white cedar tree needs a temperature condition that is neither too hot nor too cold. If the temperature condition is too hot, the tree will not be able to produce enough leaves. If the temperature condition is too cold, the tree will not be able to produce enough flowers.

Ideal Humidity

Ideal humidity condition for this plant is 70%, and it should be misted regularly. The white cedar tree is a hardy plant that can tolerate a range of different humidity levels, but it thrives in conditions that are on the more humid side. If the humidity in your home is on the low side, you can raise it by placing the white cedar tree in a room with a humidifier, or by misting the plant regularly.

Fertilizer Requirement

Discussing fertilizer, this plant prefers organic sources of nutrition, such as well-rotted leaves or manure, but it is not fussy. A general-purpose fertilizer will do. Apply it in early spring, before new growth starts. Cedar roots are relatively shallow, so be careful not to damage them when digging or cultivating near the tree.

Plant Pruning

Pruning a white cedar tree is important to keep it healthy and looking its best. When pruning, be sure to remove any dead or diseased branches. It is also important to remove any branches that are crossing or rubbing against each other. This will help to avoid damage to the tree and keep it looking neat and tidy.

The Propagation

Propagation is best accomplished by rooting hardwood or semi-hardwood cuttings taken from the trees in late summer or early fall. The cuttings should be 6 to 10 inches long and should be taken from young, vigorous growth. The cuttings should be treated with a rooting hormone and planted in a well-drained, sandy loam. They should be kept moist and in a shady location until new growth appears.

Growth Rate

Usually, the plant growth rate is between 2 and 3 feet per year. However, young trees may grow up to 5 feet per year for the first few years. Once a tree reaches maturity, its growth rate will typically slow down.

Common Problems

Common problems for this kind of plant are root rot, canker and dieback. Root rot is caused by fungi that attack the roots and trunk of the tree. This can be a serious problem if not treated early. Canker is another fungal disease that affects the trunk and branches of the tree. Dieback is caused by insects or diseases that attack the leaves and branches.

List to Know

  • If you are growing white cedar trees from seed, soak the seeds in water for 24 hours before planting.
  • White cedar trees prefer full sun but can tolerate partial shade.
  • Amend the soil with organic matter before planting.
  • Space the trees at least 8 feet apart.
  • Water the trees regularly during the first growing season.
  • Fertilize the trees annually with a balanced fertilizer.
  • Prune the trees as needed to maintain a desired shape or size.
  • Protect the trees from deer with fencing or other deer-resistant methods.
  • Monitor the trees for pests and diseases and treat as needed.
  • Enjoy the beauty of your white cedar trees for many years to come!

Substitution

  • White fir
  • White pine
  • White oak
  • White spruce
  • White hickory
  • White walnut
  • White ash
  • White elm
  • White maple
  • White willow

Source:
ENH-787/ST629: Thuja occidentalis: White Cedar - University of Florida
Northern White Cedar | Campus Trees - University of Minnesota
» White-Cedar - Albion College

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Reviewed & Published by Richelle
Submitted by our contributor
Trees Category