How Did Cedar Hedges Become a Key Element in Landscaping?
The cedar, or arborvitae, is a tree native to Eastern Canada. It was already present when Jacques Cartier first arrived on our shores. In Quebec, the first cedar hedge is believed to have been planted at Bois-de-Coulonge in 1935 by a gardener familiar with landscaping trends from the United States. At the time, Bois-de-Coulonge was the residence of Quebec’s lieutenant governors. Influential visitors helped popularize the trend, and by the 1950s–1960s, with the rise of suburban development, cedar hedges had become a standard feature in residential landscaping.
This trend has stood the test of time—and for good reason. The dense, evergreen foliage of cedar makes it an excellent choice for homeowners seeking year-round privacy. A cedar hedge creates a visual screen, defines property boundaries, and acts as an effective windbreak.
In this article, you’ll find our expert tips for choosing, planting, and maintaining your cedar hedge.
Which Cedar Variety Should You Choose for a Hedge?
There are several cedar varieties for hedging available on the market, in different sizes and heights. Taller cedars are more expensive, but they allow you to achieve your desired hedge height and density more quickly.
On average, a healthy cedar can grow about 30 cm per year. Your final choice will depend on your budget, maintenance expectations, patience, and aesthetic preferences.
Cultivated White Cedar (Thuja occidentalis)
Zone 3a. This is the most commonly used cedar for hedging. Native to Eastern Canada, it is appreciated for its dense, bright green foliage and fast lateral growth. It is often sold as White Cedar when referring to the original species, but many cultivars are also available, including ‘Nigra’, ‘Smaragd’, and ‘Brandon’.
Semi-Cultivated White Cedar (Thuja occidentalis)
Zone 3a. Also known as wild cedar, it is field-grown without pruning or intensive care. While it is the same species, its growth is slower and its foliage less dense compared to cultivated varieties. As a result, hedges take longer to fill in. However, it is more tolerant of harsh conditions and is generally more affordable.
Black Cedar (Thuja occidentalis ‘Nigra’)
Zone 3a. Known for its deep green colour—even in winter—this variety grows relatively wide and requires annual pruning. It is ideal for quickly creating a dense privacy screen. It also tolerates partial shade better and is more resistant to wind and harsh weather.
Smaragd Cedar (Thuja occidentalis ‘Smaragd’)
Zone 4a. Often considered the most ornamental cedar, it has a narrow, columnar form and vibrant emerald-green foliage. It requires minimal pruning but must be planted in full sun. It is slightly less cold-hardy than other cultivars.
Brandon Cedar (Thuja occidentalis ‘Brandon’)
Zone 3b. A compact, upright variety that is well suited to smaller spaces. It produces dense foliage and maintains a dark green colour throughout winter. It is popular for its low maintenance and good resistance to weather conditions.
How to Plant a Cedar Hedge
Choosing the Right Location
- Sun exposure: Full sun is ideal. Partial shade is possible, but foliage will be less dense.
- Soil type: Adaptable to most soils, as long as they are well-drained.
- Hardiness: Zones 3a to 4a (depending on cultivar).
- Winter conditions: Cedars have varying wind tolerance. Black cedar is among the most resistant. However, all cedars are sensitive to road salt, so avoid planting along streets or roadsides.
Soil Preparation
- Planting trench: Dig a trench approximately 60 cm wide and 45 cm deep along the desired hedge line. Use a string line to ensure proper alignment.
- Amending soil: Mix one-third compost with the excavated soil. Add either a controlled-release fertilizer or mycorrhizae.
Planting Technique
- Spacing: Plant cedars 80 to 100 cm apart. Closer spacing creates a dense hedge faster, while wider spacing promotes long-term health (up to 60–80 years).
- Ensure root balls are moist before planting.
- Plant at ground level and backfill with soil-compost mix.
- Firm the soil to eliminate air pockets.
- Water thoroughly and level the soil surface.
- Install a soaker hose along the hedge for efficient irrigation.
- Apply about 7.5 cm of mulch.
- Initial watering: Water for approximately one hour.
Cedar Hedge Maintenance Tips
Watering
- First year: Water regularly—about one hour per week. Deep watering is essential.
- Fall: Continue watering during dry periods to help plants prepare for winter. Stop in November.
Fertilization
- From the second year, use fertilizers designed for hedges or conifers (applied mid-April, mid-May, and mid-June).
- Alternatively, use a controlled-release fertilizer once per season.
- Once established, fertilize every 2–3 years.
Pruning
Pruning is essential to maintain density and prevent thinning.
Frequency: Once per year
When: Late June to early September (late June is ideal)
How: Trim about one-third (maximum two-thirds) of new growth. Never cut into old wood, as cedars regenerate poorly from it.
Shape: Maintain a wider base than top (trapezoidal shape) to ensure good light distribution. A rounded or pyramidal top helps prevent snow damage.
Neglected Hedges
Severely overgrown hedges are difficult to restore. Cutting into old wood rarely produces regrowth. Width reduction is often not possible, and replacement may be necessary.
Pests and Wildlife
Cedars are generally low-maintenance, but deer are their main threat.
White-tailed deer: While not their preferred food, cedars may be browsed in winter. In high-risk areas, consider alternatives such as Eastern Hemlock (Tsuga canadensis), which is less attractive to deer.
Winter Protection
Water thoroughly before soil freezes to reduce winter desiccation. Proper shaping also helps reduce snow accumulation.
In exposed locations, protective netting or wind barriers (jute or geotextile) may be necessary. Avoid direct contact with foliage.
Cedar hedges offer many practical benefits. Their dense, evergreen foliage enhances privacy, improves aesthetics, and increases property value. With minimal annual care, they provide long-lasting results.
