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Can you tell me about the root system of a Thuja Green Giant? #748857

Asked May 09, 2021, 10:08 AM EDT

Hi. I am considering planting some Thuja Green Giant trees along my property to hide the eyesore of my neighbor across the road (it's basically a junkyard that the town hasn't made him clean up). I'm considering the Thujga Green Giant but I have not read real concrete information about it's root system and if I need to worry about it with my septic system. I would plant these trees as far away as I can from my septic/leech field which would be maybe 15 to 20 feet. The planting line is also at a lower elevation than my septic system (my house sits on an incline from the road, which is why I need a tall tree). Do you think this is a safe tree? Do you have any information about this tree that I should know or can you recommend another tree? Do you need more information from me? Thank you very much. Laura Scarpinato

Chittenden County Vermont

Expert Response

Hello Laura,

Thank you for your question.  These are beautiful trees which grow quite tall and grow rapidly.  My reading indicates they are 'robust and hardy'.  They are a zone 5 tree, however, which means they object to temperatures going down to -20  degrees.  I do not know where you live, but that is some additional information for you.  My research indicates that root systems should not extend beyond 15 to 20 feet from the center of the tree, so your septic tank should be fine.  Let us know if you have additional questions.  Good luck!

Kathy Dodge, EMG

An Ask Extension Expert Replied May 09, 2021, 8:50 PM EDT
Received From: Laura Scarpinato <<personal data hidden>>



Hi.

Thank you so much for this reply.  I am still trying to determine if this tree will be safe for my septic but I’m told Grand Isle Nursery may know more details.

Thank you again!

Laura

 

From: Ask Extension <<personal data hidden>>
Sent: Sunday, May 9, 2021 8:50 PM
To: Laura Scarpinato <<personal data hidden>>
Subject: Re: Can you tell me about the root system of a Thuja Green Giant? (#0018788)

 

The Question Asker Replied May 10, 2021, 2:35 PM EDT
Hi Laura:  Here is some additional info. I found through the Ask Extension portal -

The root systems of arborvitae are generally shallow depending on the variety and they may spread to the drip line edges of the branches. The major root depth of a large arborvitae variety can reach 18-24 inches deep, while roots of a smaller variety such as Emerald Green, reach 8 inches deep. The roots system grows deep, not reaching out.

I might be able to provide more definitive information by seeing a photo of where your septic is located and where you wish to plant.

I hope this additional info. is helpful.

An Ask Extension Expert Replied May 11, 2021, 10:43 AM EDT

Hi.

Thank you for this additional response. 

I plan to contact Grand Isle Nursery later today with septic/root system questions as it is my understanding that they work with this tree a lot.  If I am not able to get the information I need, I will reach back out to you with a photo and/or drawings of what I am trying to do/where I would like to plant these trees.

Thank you again!

Laura

 

From: University of Vermont <<personal data hidden>>
Sent: Tuesday, May 11, 2021 10:44 AM
To: Laura Scarpinato <<personal data hidden>>
Cc: Laura Scarpinato <<personal data hidden>>
Subject: Re: Can you tell me about the root system of a Thuja Green Giant? (#0018788)

 

The Question Asker Replied May 13, 2021, 9:50 AM EDT

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