La Thuja occidentalis, Also known as western thuja o tree of Life, is an evergreen conifer native to North America, appreciated both for its ornamental beauty and for its great resistance and ease of cultivation. Its year-round green foliage and adaptability make it an ideal choice for both private gardens and urban spaces where it is often seen forming dense hedges, plant screens or as an isolated specimen.
Characteristics and origin of Thuja occidentalis
Thuja occidentalis belongs to the family Cupressaceae and is one of the most representative species of the genus Thuja. Its pyramidal shape and slow growth making it highly valued in gardening. It can reach up to 20 meters tall in optimal conditions, although in cultivation and in pots it usually has more manageable heights, between 1 and 2 meters depending on the space and pruning applied. You can also expand information about the Thuja orientalis care to learn about other similar varieties.
The thuja leaves They are scale-like, deep green, arranged on flattened branches that, in winter, can acquire more reddish tones. In addition, their foliage gives off a characteristic aroma when rubbed. Their longevity is remarkable and some specimens have exceeded 1000 years of life, although in domestic gardening they usually live for many decades with proper care.
It produces small, brown, woody fruits, up to 0,8 cm long, and is very resistant to urban pollution, making it an ideal plant for cities.
Ornamental and practical uses and properties
Thuja occidentalis is widely used in gardening, both as a solitary plant as in hedge formation thanks to its compact structure and dense foliage. It's also used to delimit spaces and as a windbreak. If you're thinking about expanding your garden boundary options, you can also check out trees for privacy.
Su wood, light and aromatic, has traditionally been used in rural constructions, especially for fenced and small furniture. In perfumery, the distillation of its leaves produces the well-known "cedar oil"It is important to note that its leaves and seeds contain compounds that, although they have active ingredients used in alternative medicine, can be harmful. toxic if ingested in excess, it is therefore recommended do not consume any part of the plant without professional advice.
Additionally, its resistance to pests and diseases and low maintenance make it a very popular choice among those who want an attractive, green, and healthy garden year-round.
How to plant and transplant Thuja occidentalis
The best time to plant or transplant a thuja is during the spring, once the risk of frost has passed, although it can also be done in late summer in temperate climates. Before planting, it's essential to prepare the soil:
- Choose a Sunny place or at least with good light exposure, since the thuja needs several hours of direct sunlight to maintain its compact shape and prevent internal leaves from falling.
- Make sure the soil has good drainageYou can use a universal substrate mixed with perlite to improve aeration and prevent waterlogging.
- Dig a hole twice the size of the root ball and add fresh compost or peat. If you are making a hedge, leave a few 60 cm between plants and also separate them from fences or walls so they have room to grow.
- Water well after planting and cover the base with bark to retain moisture.
If you grow it in a pot, choose wide and deep containers, changing to a larger size every two or three years to encourage root development.
Essential care: watering, fertilizing and pruning
El regular watering It is essential for thuja, especially during the first year of planting and during the warmer months. The frequency will depend on the climate and soil type, but as a guide:
- In summer: Water two to three times a week, ensuring that the substrate remains moist but never waterlogged. If you'd like to learn more about watering techniques, you can consult how to water in the garden.
- For the rest of the year: Reduce watering to once every five or seven days, always checking the substrate moisture before watering.
El Excess water can be harmful, promoting root rot. Good drainage is vital. On the other hand, although frost-resistant, thuja does not tolerate prolonged frost well.
For subscriberUse conifer-specific fertilizer or organic fertilizers during spring and summer, which is their peak growth period. Apply compost or well-rotted manure to planted specimens in the ground at the beginning of autumn.
With regards to pruningIt is advisable to prune lightly in late winter or early spring to maintain a compact shape and stimulate growth. If necessary, it can also be trimmed in summer, but preferably on cloudy days to prevent exposed branches from becoming sunburned. Mature specimens rarely require pruning, only to maintain their shape or remove dead branches.
Propagation and multiplication
Thuja occidentalis can be multiplied by seeds, sown at the end of winter on sandy substrate, or by cuttings (twigs of some 15 cm) during the summer. The most common method is sowing seeds, although rooting is slower with cuttings.
Pests, diseases and prevention
In general, Thuja occidentalis is very resistant to pests and diseases. However, in situations of drought or stress, it can be affected by aphidsTo prevent problems, maintain good hydration and periodically check the foliage. Excess moisture, on the other hand, can cause the appearance of root fungiIn these cases, reduce watering and improve drainage of the substrate.
La Thuja occidentalis It stands out as an ornamental conifer, ideal for bringing life and structure to gardens and terraces. Its easy maintenance, aesthetic value, longevity, and resilience make it a favorite among both novice and experienced gardeners, guaranteeing beauty and greenery year-round if basic care is followed.
