Overview
Thuja Bonsai (Thuja occidentalis and related arborvitae) is a evergreen conifer with scale foliage, fibrous bark and strong upright growth. It is best suited to forest plantings, formal upright, raft and collected-style conifer designs. For UK growers, treat it as: Outdoor only.
Placement
full sun to partial shade
Watering
keep evenly moist; avoid both drought and stale wet soil
Feeding and fertilising
feed lightly to moderately through the growing season
Pruning and wiring
trim green growth but avoid cutting into old brown wood where buds are absent
Repotting
repot every 3-4 years in spring
Propagation
cuttings or nursery material
Pests, diseases and common issues
inner browning, spider mites, scale, winter burn and poor recovery from bare wood cuts