Question
Hi Jim'
I live in Columbia Md and several years ago planted 7 leylands about 7 feet apart along the inside of a picket fence and raised the bed due to spring rains. Long story short 3 leylands have recently died and 2 others are trying to. The county planted some white cedar near these and both species developed the stress barbs at the end of the branches, but the white cedar have survived.I wonder if I can plant these green giants in that same spot when i remove the leylands ? The rains we had this year were excessive for sure, not an every year thing. The tallest Leyland was about 12 feet tall. Thanks for your help!
Doug

Answer
The Green Giant is a very fast-growing hybrid that resulted from a cross of the Western Red Cedar and Thuja standishii. It can grow 3 to 5 feet in just one summer and eventually reach heights of 30 to 50 feet tall in just over a decade. The evergreen foliage is dark green during the summer, but it will bronzen a little during the winter. Green Giant is pest and disease resistant, and deer are not fond of it either. Beyond pruning to maintain a desired size there is hardly any maintainence for established trees. Simply, prune as needed in early spring and midsummer to maintain the desired height.

To plant for hedges, set plants 6 to 8 feet apart, and for specimen plants, space 10 to 15 feet apart. Green Giants are adaptable to most average soils, both acid and alkaline, that are reasonably well-drained. They will tolerate moderately moist soil conditions but not continually wet or boggy conditions or salt spray. The most vigorous growth will occur in full sun, however your thuja will tolerate light shade.

The Thuja Green Giant is the perfect fast growing evergreen for a privacy hedge or wind screen. Plant every 5-6 feet for a thick barrier