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Golden Foliage That Glows in Every Season
Radiant Color from Spring to Winter
Thuja plicata ‘Forever Goldy’ sets itself apart from traditional arborvitae with foliage that retains a bright, sunny golden-yellow hue throughout the entire year. Unlike other gold varieties that fade in winter, Forever Goldy remains vivid even in cold temperatures, bringing cheerful warmth to gray landscapes.
The flat, spray-like branches add a soft texture and depth, and when sunlight hits the foliage, the plant seems to glow from within, creating a striking focal point in any garden or entryway.
Compact Size for Small Spaces and Modern Designs
Forever Goldy’s upright conical form and manageable height (8–10 feet tall and 3–4 feet wide) make it ideal for urban yards, foundation plantings, or mixed evergreen borders. It provides the same elegant structure as larger thujas without overwhelming tight spaces.
Plant it as a single specimen to showcase its color, or in rows for a brilliant gold privacy screen that stays lush and vibrant all year long.
Cold-Hardy and Adaptable
Forever Goldy is hardy in zones 5 and 6 and thrives in both humid and dry conditions once established. It performs best in full sun but tolerates light shade, maintaining good color. Its root system is strong and stable, making it resistant to wind and heavy snow.
It’s a go-to choice for homeowners who want a dependable, evergreen color without the finicky care that many ornamental conifers require.
Naturally Deer-Resistant and Pest-Tolerant
The aromatic foliage discourages browsing by deer and rabbits. Forever Goldy also resists common evergreen diseases and pests like bagworms and leaf blight, reducing the need for chemical treatments. Simply plant it, water it in, and watch it thrive — a low-effort way to add long-lasting structure and brightness to your landscape.
| Hardiness Zone: | 5-9 |
|---|---|
| Mature Height: | 8 to 10 Feet |
| Mature Width: | 3.5 to 4 Feet |
| Sunlight: | Full sun to light shade |
| Foliage Color: | Golden-yellow |
| Growth Form: | Dense upright and conical |
| Soil Conditions: | Moist, well-drained soil |
| Water Requirements: | Moderate; drought-tolerant once established |
| Landscape Uses: | Accent, privacy screen, foundation planting, border |
| Resistance: | Deer- and pest-resistant |
How to Care for Forever Goldy™ Arborvitae
Before you buy a Forever Goldy Arborvitae, make sure to read about the recommended care instructions to keep this plant healthy and flourishing.
How should I plant Forever Goldy Arborvitae?
Dig a hole twice as wide as the root ball and slightly shallower than its height. Position the plant so the top of the root ball sits just above soil level. Backfill with native soil mixed with compost, then water deeply to eliminate air pockets. When creating a hedge, space plants 3–4 feet apart for a solid, interlocking screen.
How often should I water Forever Goldy Arborvitae after planting?
Water deeply 2–3 times per week for the first month to encourage root development. Once established, Forever Goldy needs watering only during extended dry spells. Avoid overwatering — well-drained soil is essential to prevent root rot in conifers.
When should I fertilize Forever Goldy Arborvitae?
Fertilize in early spring with a balanced, slow-release evergreen fertilizer (10-10-10 or similar). This boosts new growth and preserves bright color throughout the season. A layer of compost each year also improves soil health and water retention.
When and how should I prune Forever Goldy Arborvitae?
Prune lightly in late spring after new growth emerges to shape and maintain density. Avoid cutting into old wood — arborvitae won’t resprout from bare branches. For hedges, a gentle annual shear keeps lines crisp and form uniform.