What Kind of Arborvitae Does Costco Sell? A Deep Dive

Arborvitae are a popular choice for homeowners seeking privacy, windbreaks, or simply a touch of evergreen elegance in their landscape. Their dense foliage and relatively fast growth rate make them an appealing option for various garden projects. Costco, known for its bulk deals and seasonal offerings, often carries arborvitae, but pinpointing the exact variety can sometimes be tricky. This article aims to clarify what type of arborvitae you’re most likely to find at Costco, considering factors like climate suitability, common cultivars, and what to look for when making your purchase.

Understanding Arborvitae: A Quick Overview

Before delving into the specific arborvitae sold at Costco, it’s helpful to understand the basics of this versatile evergreen. Arborvitae, belonging to the genus Thuja, are coniferous trees and shrubs known for their scale-like foliage and pyramidal or columnar growth habit. They are relatively low-maintenance and adaptable to a range of soil conditions, making them a favorite among landscapers and home gardeners alike.

Key characteristics of arborvitae include:

• Evergreen foliage: They retain their green color throughout the year.
• Scale-like leaves: Unlike needle-leaved conifers, arborvitae have small, overlapping scales.
• Pyramidal or columnar shape: They naturally grow in a cone or pillar-like form.
• Relatively fast growth rate: Certain varieties can grow up to 3 feet per year.
• Adaptability: They tolerate various soil types and light conditions.

The Most Likely Arborvitae Varieties at Costco

Costco’s inventory varies depending on location, season, and supplier availability. However, based on trends and common cultivars, the most likely arborvitae variety you’ll find at Costco is the ‘Green Giant’ Arborvitae (Thuja standishii x plicata).

‘Green Giant’ Arborvitae: The King of Privacy Screens

‘Green Giant’ arborvitae is a hybrid known for its rapid growth, dense foliage, and impressive size. It can reach heights of 50-60 feet and a width of 12-18 feet, making it an excellent choice for creating a tall, thick privacy screen or windbreak. Its vibrant green foliage maintains its color throughout the year, even in colder climates.

‘Green Giant’ arborvitae is also relatively disease-resistant and tolerant of deer browsing, which are significant advantages for homeowners. Its adaptability to different soil types and light conditions further contributes to its popularity. This makes it the prime candidate for big-box stores aiming to provide plants that have wide appeal and higher survival rates in various conditions.

Why ‘Green Giant’ is a likely Costco Choice:

• Fast growth: Customers see results quickly.
• Impressive size: Offers excellent privacy.
• Disease resistance: Reduces customer complaints.
• Deer resistance: A major selling point in many regions.
• Adaptability: Thrives in various conditions.

Other Possible Arborvitae Varieties

While ‘Green Giant’ is the most probable option, other arborvitae varieties might occasionally appear at Costco, depending on regional availability and supplier partnerships. These may include:

• Emerald Green Arborvitae (Thuja occidentalis ‘Smaragd’): A more compact variety, reaching heights of 10-15 feet and a width of 3-4 feet. It’s known for its rich green color and tight, columnar shape. Emerald Green is a great option for smaller spaces or formal gardens.

• Techny Arborvitae (Thuja occidentalis ‘Techny’): Also known as Mission Arborvitae, this cultivar is a hardy and adaptable choice, reaching heights of 10-15 feet and a width of 4-5 feet. It is known to hold its color well through the winter and is more tolerant of heavy snow loads.

• Degroot’s Spire Arborvitae (Thuja occidentalis ‘Degroot’s Spire’): A slender, columnar variety reaching heights of 20-30 feet and a width of only 3-5 feet. Its unique, twisted foliage adds visual interest to the landscape.

These alternatives are less common than ‘Green Giant’ at Costco, but they are possibilities to consider, particularly if you live in an area where these varieties are locally grown.

What to Look for When Buying Arborvitae at Costco

Purchasing arborvitae from Costco can be a cost-effective way to establish a privacy screen or add evergreen interest to your landscape. However, it’s crucial to carefully inspect the plants before making a purchase to ensure you’re getting healthy, vigorous specimens.

Checking the Health of the Plant

The first step is to thoroughly examine the foliage. Look for vibrant green color, indicating healthy growth. Avoid plants with brown, yellow, or discolored foliage, as this could be a sign of disease, pests, or nutrient deficiencies.

Examine the foliage for:

• Color: Look for a rich, even green.
• Density: Check for full, dense foliage.
• Spots or lesions: Avoid plants with signs of disease.

Next, inspect the trunk and branches. Look for any signs of damage, such as cracks, wounds, or insect infestations. The trunk should be straight and sturdy, and the branches should be evenly distributed around the tree.

Inspect the trunk and branches for:

• Structural integrity: Ensure the trunk is straight and sturdy.
• Damage: Look for cracks, wounds, or broken branches.
• Insect infestations: Check for signs of pests.

Inspecting the Root System

The root system is the foundation of a healthy tree. If the arborvitae is container-grown, gently remove it from the pot and examine the roots. Look for a healthy, well-developed root ball with plenty of white or tan roots. Avoid plants with circling or girdling roots, as this can restrict growth and lead to future problems.

If the arborvitae is balled and burlapped (B&B), inspect the burlap for any signs of damage or dryness. The root ball should be firm and intact.

Root System Inspection Checklist:

• Color: Healthy roots should be white or tan.
• Development: Look for a well-developed root ball.
• Circling or girdling roots: Avoid plants with these issues.
• Burlap condition (if B&B): Ensure the burlap is intact and moist.

Considering the Size and Shape

Choose arborvitae that are the appropriate size and shape for your intended purpose. If you’re creating a privacy screen, select plants that are tall enough to provide the desired level of screening. Consider the mature size of the variety you choose, and space the plants accordingly.

Also, look for plants with a symmetrical, well-balanced shape. Avoid plants with lopsided or irregular growth habits. While minor imperfections can often be corrected with pruning, severely misshapen plants may never develop into attractive specimens.

Size and Shape Considerations:

• Mature size: Choose a variety that fits your space.
• Height: Select plants tall enough for your needs.
• Shape: Look for symmetrical, well-balanced plants.

Planting and Caring for Your Costco Arborvitae

Once you’ve selected healthy arborvitae from Costco, proper planting and care are essential to ensure their long-term success.

Planting Instructions

Choose a planting location that receives at least six hours of sunlight per day. Arborvitae prefer well-drained soil, so avoid areas that are prone to waterlogging. Dig a hole that is twice as wide as the root ball and just as deep.

Before planting, gently loosen any circling or girdling roots to encourage outward growth. Place the arborvitae in the hole, ensuring that the top of the root ball is level with the surrounding soil. Backfill the hole with soil, gently tamping it down to remove any air pockets.

Water the newly planted arborvitae thoroughly. Apply a layer of mulch around the base of the plant to help retain moisture and suppress weeds.

Ongoing Care Tips

Water your arborvitae regularly, especially during the first year after planting. Once established, they are relatively drought-tolerant, but they will benefit from occasional watering during dry spells.

Fertilize your arborvitae in the spring with a balanced fertilizer. Avoid over-fertilizing, as this can lead to excessive growth and weakened branches.

Prune your arborvitae as needed to maintain its shape and remove any dead or damaged branches. The best time to prune is in late winter or early spring, before new growth begins.

Monitor your arborvitae for any signs of pests or diseases. Treat any problems promptly to prevent them from spreading.

Key Care Considerations:

• Sunlight: Plant in a location with at least 6 hours of sun.
• Watering: Water regularly, especially when newly planted.
• Fertilizing: Fertilize in the spring with a balanced fertilizer.
• Pruning: Prune as needed to maintain shape.
• Pest and disease control: Monitor and treat any problems promptly.

The Value Proposition of Buying Arborvitae at Costco

Costco can offer a compelling value proposition for buying arborvitae, primarily due to their bulk buying power and efficient distribution network. This allows them to offer competitive prices, often lower than those found at smaller nurseries or garden centers. However, it’s essential to weigh the potential cost savings against the importance of plant selection and expertise.

Advantages of buying from Costco:

• Competitive pricing: Often offers lower prices due to bulk buying.
• Convenience: Easy to purchase alongside other household items.
• Return policy: Costco is known for its generous return policy.

Considerations before buying:

• Limited selection: May not offer a wide variety of cultivars.
• Potentially smaller sizes: Plants may be younger or smaller than those at specialty nurseries.
• Less personalized advice: Staff may not have specialized plant knowledge.

Ultimately, the decision of whether to buy arborvitae at Costco depends on your individual needs and priorities. If you’re looking for a cost-effective way to establish a large privacy screen and are comfortable with a limited selection, Costco can be a great option. However, if you require a specific cultivar or desire personalized advice from a plant expert, a specialty nursery may be a better choice.

By understanding the types of arborvitae likely to be available at Costco, knowing what to look for when selecting plants, and following proper planting and care instructions, you can successfully incorporate these versatile evergreens into your landscape and enjoy their beauty and benefits for years to come.

What varieties of Arborvitae does Costco typically offer?

Costco often carries popular and resilient varieties of Arborvitae, primarily chosen for their adaptability and visual appeal in residential landscapes. The most commonly found variety is the Emerald Green Arborvitae (Thuja occidentalis ‘Smaragd’). They might also occasionally offer other varieties like the Green Giant Arborvitae (Thuja standishii x plicata ‘Green Giant’) or other cultivars depending on regional availability and seasonal demand.

The Emerald Green is favored for its narrow, columnar shape, which makes it ideal for privacy screens and hedges without requiring excessive space. Its dense, bright green foliage retains its color throughout the year, providing year-round visual interest. While Green Giant offers a faster growth rate and a larger mature size, making it suitable for quicker privacy solutions in larger landscapes. Variety availability changes based on season and regional distribution.

How are Arborvitae at Costco typically packaged and sold?

Arborvitae at Costco are usually sold in containers, typically ranging in size from 3-gallon to 7-gallon pots, depending on the variety and the supplier. They are often sold individually or in bundled packages, particularly for Emerald Green Arborvitae intended for hedge planting. This allows customers to purchase the necessary quantity for creating a continuous privacy screen or landscape border more conveniently.

The plants are generally well-established in their containers, with healthy root systems and actively growing foliage. Costco’s suppliers take steps to ensure that the Arborvitae are properly watered and fertilized before being placed on sale. However, it is essential to inspect the plants carefully before purchasing to ensure they are free from pests, diseases, or damage.

What is the typical price range for Arborvitae sold at Costco?

The price of Arborvitae at Costco varies depending on the size of the plant, the variety, and the region where it is sold. Generally, a 3-gallon Emerald Green Arborvitae might range from $25 to $40, while a larger 7-gallon plant could cost between $50 and $75. Green Giant Arborvitae, due to their larger size and faster growth rate, might be priced slightly higher.

Keep in mind that Costco’s prices are often competitive compared to local nurseries and garden centers, making them an attractive option for budget-conscious gardeners. Also, look out for sales or promotional periods, where bundled packages or individual plants might be offered at discounted rates. Checking online forums or contacting your local Costco can provide up-to-date pricing information.

When is the best time to purchase Arborvitae from Costco?

The best time to purchase Arborvitae from Costco generally aligns with the optimal planting seasons for these trees. This typically means spring or fall, when the weather is cooler and more conducive to root establishment. Planting during these times minimizes stress on the plants and allows them to acclimate to their new environment before facing the extremes of summer heat or winter cold.

Costco usually stocks its garden centers with Arborvitae and other landscape plants in the spring and fall. Checking with your local Costco store or online resources will confirm when they anticipate receiving their shipments. Purchasing early in the season provides a wider selection and ensures that you can secure healthy plants before they are picked over.

What should I look for when selecting healthy Arborvitae at Costco?

When selecting Arborvitae at Costco, carefully inspect the plants for signs of health and vigor. Look for dense, green foliage that is free from brown or yellow discoloration. Avoid plants with significant needle drop, which could indicate stress or disease. Ensure that the foliage is uniform in color and texture across the entire plant.

Examine the trunk and branches for any signs of damage, such as broken limbs or wounds. Check the soil moisture in the container; it should be slightly moist but not waterlogged. Also, look for signs of pests, such as aphids or spider mites, by carefully inspecting the foliage and stems. Healthy roots are key for successful establishment, so a quick look at the bottom of the pot for roots emerging from the drainage holes indicates a good root system.

What is Costco’s return policy on Arborvitae and other plants?

Costco generally has a customer-friendly return policy, including plants like Arborvitae. Their policy usually allows for returns of plants that do not thrive or meet expectations, within a reasonable timeframe. This helps assure customers that they can purchase plants with confidence. It’s always important to keep your receipt as proof of purchase.

It is highly recommended to confirm the specifics of Costco’s current plant return policy with your local store or on their website before purchasing. Policies can vary based on location and may be subject to change. Be prepared to provide information regarding the plant’s care and growing conditions if you need to process a return.

Are the Arborvitae at Costco covered by any type of warranty?

While Costco offers a generous return policy on many products, including plants, they typically do not provide a specific warranty on Arborvitae or other landscape plants. The return policy acts as a de facto limited warranty, allowing customers to return plants that fail to thrive shortly after purchase. However, this is not a long-term guarantee against disease or environmental factors.

It is important to note that plant health and survival depend heavily on proper planting and care. Factors such as soil conditions, watering practices, and sunlight exposure can significantly impact the success of your Arborvitae. While Costco sources its plants from reputable suppliers, they cannot guarantee their long-term health once they leave the store. Focus on proper care and attention to ensure your Arborvitae thrive.