Thuja plicata 'Atrovirens'
Thuja plicata's (Western Red Cedar) glossy, green foliage can form the perfect evergreen screen for protection against wind and noise, as well as adding that needed length of privacy.
Western Red Cedar is the perfect alternative to Leylandii hedging, as it still gives you that rich green, and dense evergreen hedge, but is that ever so slightly slower at growing.
The glossy, dark green foliage of the Western Red Cedar is bolder than other types of conifers and is displayed in striking sprays. The leaves give off a sweet, pineapple-like scent when crushed between your fingers, making the Western Red Cedar that much more enticing. The plant also produces little cones, but it is most loved for its rich and dense leaves.
Thuja plicata Atrovirens, has proved to be the ideal hedge for any garden surrounded by heavy traffic, as well as country and suburban settings, due to the way it can effectively absorb pollution particles. Including this, the tall stature can make it the perfect background to any colourful and small plants, which just need an accompaniment to make them stand out from their surroundings.
Western Red Cedar can grow in both sun and shade and is flourishes best in any well-drained soil. The hedge grows at 40-60cm per year, and is still considered fast growing, however you can still cut back into old wood without the risk of it browning (which you cannot do with Leylandii), and this therefore makes it that much easier to maintain.
| Growth Rate | Fast (40-60cm per year) |
| Ideal Height | 2.5m+ Tall |
| Soil Type | Normal |
| Exposure | Exposed, coastal, inland |
| Aspect | Full sun, semi-shade |
| Evergreen Foliage? | Yes |
The Western Red Cedar is rather simple to maintain, needing only a couple trims in a year- once in the Springtime and then again in early Autumn.
When should I plant?
The best time, in general, to plant your hedging is during the autumn, but potted plants can be planted at any time of year if they get enough water, and the ground is not frozen.
How far apart do you plant?
Depending on the size of plant, you will need to place your hedging plants around 2ft apart. This does depend on how quickly you're looking for the hedge to establish, however, as we recommend up to 5 plants per metre for the smaller plant sizes.
How to plant:
Ensure the area is clear of other plants, weeds, and grass first.
Dig the holes or a trench for the plants, that's twice the width of the plant's base. When you are digging the hole, ensure you have churned it up at the bottom so the roots can settle easier. If you have a very sandy/hardy soil, then put in some loam-based compost. In terms of normal soil, you will need some controlled-release feed to give the planting a starting boost.
Once this is all done, you can put the plant in! Place it into the middle of the hole carefully and slowly, making sure the top of the roots are 1/2 inch below the soils surface. Refill the hole, then press gently around the edges to secure the soil.
| Order Value | Standard Delivery Charge (Inc. VAT) |
|---|---|
| £0.00 - £49.99 | £7.50 |
| £50.00 - £99.99 | £13.80 |
