Skybound Cedar

Skybound Cedar (Thuja occidentalis ‘Skybound’) Care Guide

Overview

Skybound Cedar (also known as Skybound Arborvitae or “Skybound Cedar/Thuja”) is a columnar, narrow evergreen prized for its upright growth habit, dense foliage, and excellent cold hardiness. It is often used as a tall screen, vertical accent, or hedge in landscapes where space is limited.

• Mature height: ~ 15 to 20 ft, width: ~ 4–5 ft. 

• Exceptional winter hardiness, suitable for colder climates. 

• Dense, dark green scale-like foliage along a narrow column. 

1. Planting & Site Selection

• Sunlight: Full sun is best for foliage density and health. Partial shade is tolerable but may lead to thinner foliage. 

• Soil: Prefers well-drained soil. Avoid sites where water tends to stand. 

• Spacing: Because of its narrow form, you can space it 3–4 ft apart for a privacy screen, but more if you want full, unconfined growth.

• Shelter: In very exposed, windy sites, some shelter or protection from winter desiccation may be helpful.

2. Watering & Establishment

• First Year: Keep the root zone moist (not soggy) while the tree establishes. Deep watering is beneficial.

• After Establishment: More drought tolerant, but in extended dry periods supplemental watering helps maintain vigor and foliage.

• Mulching: Use 2–3 in of organic mulch around the base (leaving a gap at the trunk) to help retain moisture and moderate soil temperatures.

3. Fertilizing

• In early spring, apply a balanced, slow-release evergreen fertilizer if growth appears weak or foliage is pale.

• Avoid over-fertilizing, especially with high nitrogen, which may push excessive soft growth vulnerable to winter damage.

4. Pruning & Maintenance

• Timing: Late winter to early spring before new growth begins.

• How to Prune:
   • Remove any dead, diseased, or crossing branches.
   • You can lightly trim the outer growth to maintain shape or keep the column narrow, but avoid cutting deeply into old wood — cedars generally don’t regrow from bare wood.
   • Avoid heading cuts that remove large sections of interior branches.

5. Foliage & Seasonal Interest

• Foliage is dark green and dense, giving good year-round screening.

• In very cold or drought conditions, some browning or “flagging” of branch tips may occur — proper health and watering reduce this risk.

• Because of its strong vertical form, it adds architectural interest in the winter landscape.

6. Pests & Disease Management

• Common Issues:
   • Needle blights or tip blights can occur in humid, poorly ventilated sites.
   • Root rot may develop in poorly drained soils.
   • Pests like mites, scale, or bagworms may occasionally affect cedars.

• Prevention & Control:
   • Ensure good air circulation and avoid over-crowding.
   • Avoid overhead watering or prolonged foliage wetness.
   • Monitor regularly and remove infected foliage early.
   • Plant in well-drained soil to prevent root stress or disease.

7. Winter & Cold Protection

• Skybound Cedar is very cold-hardy and generally does not need special winter protection, even in harsh climates. 

• For young plantings, a winter watering before freeze-up helps ensure the tree goes into winter well hydrated. 

• In areas with heavy winds or sun exposure, a wind buffer or snow fencing may help reduce desiccation.

8. Landscape Uses

Ideal as a narrow screen or windbreak where space is limited
Great as a vertical accent or “spine” in hedges and mixed plantings
Suitable for tight urban landscapes where a wide tree would be impractical
Works in formal or informal designs—providing structure and winter greenery

Photo from Bylands Nursery