Arborvitae and Green Giants are both popular choices for landscaping and creating privacy hedges, but there are several key differences between the two.
1. Size: The most noticeable difference between the two is their size. Green Giants are much larger than Arborvitae, both in height and width. Green Giants can reach heights of up to 60 feet, while Arborvitae typically grow to be around 10-15 feet tall. In terms of width, Green Giants can spread out to about 15-20 feet, whereas Arborvitae usually have a narrower spread of around 3-4 feet.
2. Color: Another visible difference is their color. Green Giants have a deep, dark green foliage, while Arborvitae tends to have a lighter shade of green. This darker color of Green Giants can provide a more dramatic and striking appearance in the landscape.
3. Cold Tolerance: Green Giants have a higher cold tolerance compared to Arborvitae. While both species are generally hardy and can withstand winter conditions well, Green Giants are known to be more resistant to extreme cold temperatures and harsh winter conditions. This makes Green Giants a preferred choice for gardeners in colder regions.
4. Soil Preferences: Arborvitae are more adaptable to a wider range of soil conditions compared to Green Giants. Arborvitae can tolerate both acidic and alkaline soils, while Green Giants prefer slightly acidic to neutral soil. However, both species prefer well-draining soil to avoid waterlogging, which can lead to root rot.
5. Growth Rate: Green Giants have a faster growth rate than Arborvitae. Green Giants can grow up to 3 feet per year, while Arborvitae typically have a slower growth rate of around 1-2 feet per year. This faster growth rate of Green Giants can be advantageous if you are looking for a quick privacy screen or a fast-growing tree for landscaping purposes.
The main differences between Arborvitae and Green Giants lie in their size, color, cold tolerance, soil preferences, and growth rate. Green Giants are taller, wider, and have a darker green color compared to Arborvitae. They are also more tolerant of cold temperatures and have a faster growth rate. On the other hand, Arborvitae are more adaptable to different soil conditions. Ultimately, the choice between the two will depend on your specific needs and preferences for your landscape.