Arborvitae

Drive down just about any street, especially in the older, well established sections of Reno (e.g. the Old Southwest and the Old Northwest) and you will see the Arborvitae in its mature splendor. Used extensively as windbreaks, hedges and privacy screens, the Arborvitae has been a favorite of Reno gardeners for several generations.

A member of the Cypress family, the Arborvitae is an evergreen that grows extremely well in the high desert valleys of Northern Nevada as they enjoy a good cold winter climate. In summer their soft leaves turn toward a deep, luscious green. In winter the leaves show off hints of red and rust. The dense interior is usually without leaves, but hidden away by the lush exterior. Inside, the thicket becomes a favorite cover for local birds like the Mourning Dove, Blue Jays and even sometimes Quail.

Several types of Arborvitae are available. The Globe Arborvitae is plump and rounded. The American Arborvitae will grow wide and tall. Others will grow tall and thin. Gardeners often prune and shape them into hedges although left alone, they will remain quite shapely and beautiful all by themselves.

Arborvitae will live in a variety of moisture and soil conditions, from moist and well prepared to dry and rocky. They love full sun, but will endure partial shade. Often they are planted along fences where one side receives sun. In such conditions, they will concentrate leaf growth on one side.

Arborvitae are generally resistant to insects and disease. Although, deer do find their foliage to be a tasty treat.

The fruit of the Arborvitae produces seeds that help feed the local wild birds.