The Emerald Green and Techny arborvitae are two popular varieties of arborvitae trees that are known for their compact size and attractive appearance. While they share some similarities, there are also distinct differences between the two.
1. Height: Both Emerald Green and Techny arborvitae reach a maximum height of around 15 feet. However, Emerald Green tends to maintain a more upright and columnar shape, while Techny has a slightly more spreading form.
2. Spread: The spread of these two varieties differs significantly. Emerald Green has a spread of approximately 7 feet, making it narrower and more compact. On the other hand, Techny has a wider spread, reaching up to 10 feet. This broader spread can provide better coverage when used as a privacy screen or hedge.
3. Form: Emerald Green arborvitae has a more narrow and dense growth habit. Its foliage is vibrant green, and the branches grow tightly together, creating a neat and tidy appearance. Techny arborvitae, on the other hand, has a broader and more open form. The branches tend to spread out, giving it a more layered and relaxed look.
4. Foliage: Both varieties have evergreen foliage that remains green throughout the year, providing visual interest even in the winter months. However, there are slight differences in the texture and color of their foliage. Emerald Green arborvitae has soft, feathery foliage that is bright green in color. Techny arborvitae, on the other hand, has darker green foliage that is slightly coarser in texture.
5. Use: Due to its narrow and compact form, Emerald Green arborvitae is often used as a vertical accent in landscapes or as a privacy screen in smaller spaces. Its smaller spread makes it suitable for planting closer to structures or in tight areas. Techny arborvitae, with its wider spread and lower-growing habit, is a preferred choice for hedging, windbreaks, or as a foundation planting where a broader coverage is desired.
In my personal experience, I have used both Emerald Green and Techny arborvitae in various landscaping projects. The Emerald Green variety worked exceptionally well as a screen along a property line, providing privacy without taking up too much space. Its upright growth habit and dense foliage created a visually pleasing backdrop for the rest of the garden.
On the other hand, Techny arborvitae was a great choice for a windbreak in a more open area. Its wider spread helped to create a solid barrier against strong winds, while the layered branches added depth and texture to the landscape.
While both Emerald Green and Techny arborvitae are compact and attractive evergreen trees, they differ in their spread, form, and foliage. Choosing between the two depends on the specific needs and aesthetic preferences of the landscaping project at hand.
