Tater Tot® Arborvitae

The Tater Tot® Arborvitae (Thuja occidentalis) is a distinctive evergreen shrub, celebrated for its compact and mounded growth habit. This plant stands out with its short stature, typically reaching a garden height of 24 to 36 inches and spreading equally to about 36 to 48 inches. Its foliage is a vibrant green, maintaining this lush hue throughout the year, which adds a persistent verdant charm to any garden setting.

This arborvitae variety boasts a rounded shape that serves as an ideal filler in container gardens or as a structured element in landscape designs. Its adaptability to light conditions is noteworthy; it flourishes in environments ranging from part sun to full sun, making it versatile for different garden spots. The plant thrives best with an average water requirement, indicating a need for consistent but not excessive watering.

The Tater Tot® Arborvitae is a versatile plant that can be used in various landscaping applications due to its compact size, evergreen nature, and rounded shape. Here are some of its key landscaping uses:

1. Border Plant: Its neat, globe-like shape makes it perfect for defining the edges of garden beds or pathways, offering a structured yet natural border.
2. Container Gardening: Due to its moderate size, Tater Tot® Arborvitae is ideal for container gardening, adding greenery to patios, balconies, or entranceways.
3. Foundation Plantings: Its small stature and evergreen foliage make it suitable for foundation plantings, where it can provide year-round interest without overpowering the space.
4. Mass Planting: When planted in groups, Tater Tot® Arborvitae creates a uniform, textured appearance, suitable for creating a low, informal hedge or a unified landscape element.
5. Specimen or Focal Point: Its unique form and consistent green color make it a great focal point in a garden, drawing attention and adding visual interest.
6. Lawn Substitute: In areas where grass may be difficult to maintain, this arborvitae can serve as a green, low-maintenance alternative.
7. Mixed Shrub Borders: It pairs well with other shrubs and perennials, contributing to a diverse and attractive mixed border.
8. Rock Gardens: Its small size and tolerance of various conditions make it a good choice for rock gardens, where it can add greenery without requiring extensive care.
9. Urban Gardens: Tater Tot® Arborvitae is suitable for urban settings due to its pollution tolerance and ability to thrive in confined spaces.
10. Wildlife Garden: While it's not known for attracting a wide range of wildlife, its dense foliage can provide shelter for small birds and insects.

Overall, the Tater Tot® Arborvitae is an adaptable and easy-to-maintain choice for a wide range of garden styles and purposes.

The Tater Tot® Arborvitae is a low-maintenance and adaptable shrub, making it an excellent choice for gardeners of all skill levels. Here are the key planting and care instructions:

Planting Instructions:

1. Timing: Plant in spring or early fall to allow roots to establish before extreme temperatures.
2. Location: Choose a location with part sun to full sun exposure (4-6 hours of sun minimum).
3. Soil: Prefers well-drained soil. It can tolerate a range of soil types, but avoid overly wet conditions.
4. Spacing: Space plants 3 to 4 feet apart to allow for mature spread.
5. Planting Depth: Plant at the same depth as the root ball. Make sure the base of the plant is level with the surrounding soil to prevent water pooling.

Watering:

1. Initial Care: Water thoroughly after planting. Keep soil consistently moist but not waterlogged during the first growing season.
2. Ongoing Care: Once established, Tater Tot® Arborvitae is relatively drought tolerant. Water occasionally, more frequently during extreme heat or if in containers.

Mulching:

1. Apply a 2-3 inch layer of mulch around the base of the plant to help retain soil moisture and regulate soil temperature.

Pruning:

1. When to Prune: If necessary, prune in spring after new growth begins.
2. How to Prune: Avoid cutting into thick, old stems. Light trimming to shape the plant is usually sufficient.

Fertilizing:

1. Use a balanced, slow-release fertilizer in early spring, following product instructions.

Winter Care:

1. In colder zones, provide extra mulch for root protection during winter.
2. Avoid heavy snow accumulation on branches to prevent breakage.

Pest and Disease Management:

1. Regularly inspect for signs of pests or disease.
2. Treat with appropriate fungicides or insecticides if necessary, following safety guidelines.

By following these care instructions, your Tater Tot® Arborvitae should thrive and provide year-round interest in your garden. Remember, this plant is valued for its ease of care, so it won’t require extensive maintenance once it’s established.