How to Propagate Arborvitae
Thuja occidentalis
| Methods | Stem cutting |
| Difficulty | Intermediate |
| Best season | Fall–winter |
| Time to root | 8–12 weeks |
| Group | Outdoor / garden |
Like juniper, this conifer roots slowly from dormant-season cuttings. Wounding the base and using rooting hormone meaningfully improves the otherwise low success rate.
Stem cutting
- Take a 4–6 inch cutting in fall or winter.
- Wound the base lightly.
- Dip in rooting hormone.
- Insert into a sandy, well-draining mix.
When to propagate
Fall through winter.
Common problems
Slow or no rooting. Normal for conifers — patience matters more than adjusting technique.
Questions people ask
Can I speed up rooting with bottom heat? Yes, gentle bottom heat can help, though this plant will still take months regardless.
Related
Soil & cutting methods hub · Similar plants: Juniper, Holly