Growing Information

Growing zone guide
Growing Zone Zone 3, Zone 4, Zone 5, Zone 6, Zone 7, Zone 8
Sunlight Medium to bright light
Type of Soil Slightly acidic to neutral
Mature Height 2–3 feet
Maintenance Level Moderate maintenance
Water Requirement Low to moderate (once a week in hot climate, once every 2 weeks in regular climate)

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Additional Information
Growth Rate

  • Speed: Slow to moderate growth rate.
  • Mature Growth: Reaches 3-4 feet tall and 1.5-2 feet wide, forming a dense, narrow column ideal for hedges, screens, or accent plants in tight spaces.
Colorful Leaves No
Flowering No
Bloom Color N/A
Ornamental Berries N/A
Disease resistant Yes
Cold Tolerant Yes
Heat Tolerant No
Drought Tolerant No
Deer Resistant Yes
Edible No
Wildlife Attraction
  • Attracts: Birds may be attracted to the small cones for food and the dense foliage for shelter.
  • Wildlife Resistant: Generally resistant to deer and rabbits due to the toxic nature of the foliage.
Self-pollinating Self-pollinating
Seasonality
  • Foliage Season: Evergreen (retains foliage year-round).
  • Flowering Season: Produces inconspicuous flowers; primarily valued for its foliage.
  • Hardiness Zones: USDA Zones 3-7
Ideal For
  • Foundation plantings
  • Low hedges and borders
  • Rock gardens
  • Container gardens
  • Small landscape areas
Leaf Description
  • Color: Bright emerald green.
  • Form: Soft, scale-like leaves arranged in tight, upright sprays that create a lush appearance.
  • Winter Interest: Retains vibrant green color throughout winter, providing consistent visual appeal in the landscape.
Flower Description
  • Color: Inconspicuous; flowers are not significant for ornamental value.
  • Form: Small cones may develop on female plants but are not visually prominent.
  • Bloom Time: Early spring; flowering is not a primary feature of this variety.
Pruning & Maintenance
  • Timing: Minimal pruning required; can be lightly pruned in late winter or early spring to maintain shape.
  • Method: Remove any dead or damaged branches as needed. Light trimming can help maintain a compact form and encourage bushier growth.
Water Needs

  • Watering Frequency: Water regularly during the first growing season to establish deep roots. Once established, 'Emerald Squeeze' is drought-tolerant and requires minimal watering during dry periods.
  • Soil Moisture: Prefers evenly moist soil but can tolerate dry conditions once established. Avoid waterlogged soil to prevent root rot.
Light Needs

Thrives in full sun to partial shade. At least 6 hours of direct sunlight per day is recommended for optimal growth and vibrant color.

Harvesting

While it is not harvested for food or flowers, its dense, finely textured evergreen sprays can be used ornamentally—particularly for seasonal decor and light craft applications.

Fertilizing
  • Fertilization Time: Fertilize in early spring before new growth begins.
  • Fertilizer Type: Use a balanced, slow-release fertilizer or organic compost to promote healthy growth and vibrant foliage.
Additional Care Tips
  • Mulching: Apply a 2-3 inch layer of mulch around the base to retain moisture, suppress weeds, and protect the roots from temperature extremes.
  • Drought Tolerance: Once established, 'Emerald Squeeze' is drought-tolerant, making it an excellent choice for low-maintenance landscapes.
  • Pests and Diseases: Generally pest-free and resistant to common diseases. Ensure good air circulation to prevent any fungal issues, especially in humid climates.
Pollination
  • Pollination Type: Coniferous plant with male and female cones; wind-pollinated. Pollination is not significant for ornamental value.
  • Fruit Production: May produce small cones, but these are not visually significant and primarily serve as a food source for birds.
Companion Plants
  • Hosta
  • Ferns
  • Rhododendron
  • Heuchera
Flowering and Seasonality
  • Foliage Season: Evergreen (retains foliage year-round).
  • Flowering Season: Produces inconspicuous flowers; primarily valued for its foliage.
  • Hardiness Zones: USDA Zones 3-7
  • Color: Inconspicuous; flowers are not significant for ornamental value.
  • Form: Small cones may develop on female plants but are not visually prominent.
  • Bloom Time: Early spring; flowering is not a primary feature of this variety.
Pet Friendly

Yes

Growing Zone
  • Zone 3
  • Zone 4
  • Zone 5
  • Zone 6
  • Zone 7
  • Zone 8

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