Thuja (Tree of Life)

What is a Thuja (Tree of Life or hedging conifer)?

The Thuja, often colloquially called the Tree of Life, is one of the most popular hedging conifers in the Netherlands. This evergreen plant belongs to the cypress family and is known for its scale-like leaves that release a delightful fragrance when crushed. Unlike many other conifers, the Thuja does not prick, making it very child- and pet-friendly. Whether you choose the popular 'Brabant' or the slender 'Smaragd', the Thuja grows compactly and forms an impenetrable wall of greenery that fits into any garden design, from modern to classic.

The benefits of Thuja as a hedging plant?

The Thuja offers countless benefits for your garden. It is a low-maintenance plant that is very reliable. The main advantages are:

What to look for when buying Thuja?

When you are going to buy a Thuja, it is important to look at the specific variety that suits your needs. Do you want a hedge that grows dense quickly and that you prune twice a year? Then choose the Thuja 'Brabant'. Would you prefer a hedge that grows more slowly, requires less maintenance, and has a finer structure? Then the Thuja 'Smaragd' is the best option. When purchasing, also pay attention to the quality of the root ball and the color of the plant; a healthy Thuja should be deep green and show no brown spots inside the shrub.

How and where do I plant my Thuja?

The Thuja is a versatile plant that thrives in most places in the garden. It prefers full sun or partial shade. In terms of soil, nutrient-rich, well-draining soil is essential; the Thuja does not like 'wet feet', but must not dry out completely either. When planting, it is best to dig a trench that is slightly larger than the root ball. Mix the excavated soil with a soil conditioner or special conifer soil to give the roots a good start. Maintain the recommended planting distance for a beautifully dense result.

How do I maintain my Thuja?

Maintaining a Thuja hedge is relatively simple, provided you are consistent. The most important thing is pruning: prune the Thuja at least twice a year (for example, in June and September) to keep it compact and vigorous. Note: never prune back to bare wood, as a Thuja will not sprout from there. In addition to pruning, watering is crucial, especially in the first year after planting and during dry summers. In the spring, apply a specific conifer fertilizer to stimulate growth and keep the green color deep and glossy.

Buy Thuja at Planten247

At Planten247, we understand that you want to see immediate results in your garden. That is why we only supply Thujas of the highest quality, fresh from the grower. Whether you are looking for young plants to watch them grow yourself, or want to immediately plant a tall hedge for optimal privacy: you will always find the right size in our assortment. By ordering your Thuja online from Planten247, you benefit from competitive prices and fast, careful home delivery throughout the Netherlands. Start greening your outdoor space today!

Frequently asked questions about Thuja

How fast does a Thuja hedge grow?

Depending on the variety, a Thuja grows an average of 20 to 40 centimeters per year. The 'Brabant' is the fastest grower, while the 'Smaragd' grows slightly more slowly and therefore requires less frequent pruning.

Why is my Thuja turning brown?

Brown spots can be caused by extreme drought, a magnesium deficiency, or by pruning too deeply into the old wood. Soil that is too wet can also cause root rot, which manifests as discoloration of the scales.

When is the best time to plant the Thuja?

The best period to plant a Thuja with a root ball is between September and May, as long as it is not freezing. Potted plants can be planted all year round, provided you water them sufficiently in the summer.

How many Thuja plants do I need per meter?

This depends on the size of the plant at the time of purchase. On average, for plants 100-120 cm tall, you need about 3 plants per linear meter for a beautiful, full hedge.