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Growth Rate
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- 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.
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Wildlife Attraction
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- 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.
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Seasonality
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- Foliage Season: Evergreen (year-round foliage).
- Flowering Season: No significant flowers; primarily valued for foliage.
- Hardiness Zones: USDA Zones 3-7
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Ideal For
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- Foundation plantings
- Low hedges and borders
- Rock gardens
- Container gardens
- Small landscape areas
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Leaf Description
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- 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.
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Flower Description
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- 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.
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Planting Instructions
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- Planting Time: Best planted in spring or fall when temperatures are mild.
- Soil Requirements: Prefers well-drained, slightly acidic to neutral soil but is adaptable to various soil types, including clay and sandy soils.
- Planting Depth: Plant at the same depth as in the nursery container, ensuring the root ball is level with the soil surface.
- Spacing: Space plants 3-4 feet apart to allow for full growth and optimal air circulation.
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Pruning & Maintenance
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- 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.
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Water Needs
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- 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.
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Light Needs
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- Thrives in full sun to partial shade. At least 6 hours of direct sunlight per day is recommended for optimal growth and color.
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Fertilizing
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- 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.
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Additional Care Tips
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- 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.
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Pollination
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- 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.
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Companion Plants
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- Hosta
- Ferns
- Rhododendron
- Heuchera
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