How to Mulch a New Green Giant Arborvitae

"Green Giant" arborvitae (Thuja plicata) is an evergreen tree, hardy in U.S. Department of Agriculture plant hardiness zones 4 or 5 through 7 or 8 that can grow 40 feet tall or larger, depending on climate and culture. Arborvitae are noted for their sturdy, pyramidal shape and shiny green foliage. "Green Giant" and other arborvitae varieties grow best in uniformly moist soil, making moisture-conserving mulch desirable. The size of the mulched area should increase as the tree matures.

Things You'll Need

• Spade or shovel
• Hose or watering can
• 2 cubic yards mulch

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Instructions

1. • 1

     Firm the ground around the new "Green Giant" and water thoroughly.

   • 2

     Spread mulch around the base of the arborvitae in either a 4-foot square or a circle with a diameter of 4 feet. Spread the mulch to a depth of 3 inches. Use shredded pine, hardwood nuggets or pine straw.

   • 3

     Push mulch away from the arborvitae's base, so that there is a 4-inch-wide circle of unmulched space between the mulch and the trunk. The mulch configuration should look like a doughnut rather than a volcano. Any leftover mulch can be saved for other uses.