Question
I just gutted the beds in the front of our house. I want to plant an emerald green arborvitae on either end of the house. I'm aware that they grow about 15' tall and 4' wide. Can they be planted in a bed next to the house without the damaging the house or the foundation (by the roots)?

What are my other options for pyramid shaped evergreens?

Answer
Hello Eric

I would imagine that you are referring to the tree Thuja occidentalis which is a relatively slow growing conifer. Although they do not possess particularly damaging root systems, they can still become large enough to penetrate weakspots, such as drainage pipes etc.
I would plant them but maintain them in a small and neat state by trimming them annually, in this way the roots shouls remain fibrousy and do little damage to the house.

Use a thick organic surface mulch as this will encourage a surface root system.

Why don't you consider choosing a bay laurel, osmanthus or holly oak to do the same job with?

See here: http://www.lifeinitaly.com/garden/topiary-garden.asp

Kind regards and thanks for any points for this question in advance.

Jonathan Radford www.ecologicagardens.com