Hetz Midget Arborvitae

• Speed: Slow-growing; retains a compact form with minimal size increase each year.
• Mature Growth: Reaches 2-3 feet tall and 3-4 feet wide, forming a dense, rounded mound that is perfect for low hedges or ground cover.

• Attracts: Birds may be drawn to the small cones for food and the dense foliage for shelter.
• Wildlife Resistant: Generally resistant to deer and rabbits, making it suitable for gardens with browsing wildlife.

• Foliage Season: Evergreen (year-round foliage).
• Flowering Season: No significant flowers; primarily valued for foliage.
• Hardiness Zones: USDA Zones 3-7

• Foundation plantings
• Low hedges and borders
• Rock gardens
• Container gardens
• Small landscape areas

• Color: Bright green.
• Form: Soft, scale-like foliage arranged in flat sprays that create a lush appearance.
• Winter Interest: Maintains vibrant green color throughout winter, providing consistent visual appeal in the landscape.

• Color: Inconspicuous flowers; Thuja does not produce significant ornamental flowers.
• Form: Small cones appear on female plants, but they are not visually prominent.
• Bloom Time: Flowering is not a notable feature for this variety.

• Timing: Minimal pruning is 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.

• Watering Frequency: Water regularly during the first growing season to establish deep roots. Once established, 'Hetz Midget' 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.

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

Although Thuja ‘Hetz Midget’ is not harvested for food or flowers, it offers value for decorative and horticultural harvesting, especially during seasonal maintenance or pruning.

• 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.

• 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, 'Hetz Midget' 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 fungal issues, especially in humid climates.

• 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 are primarily a food source for birds.

• Hosta
• Ferns
• Rhododendron
• Heuchera