Thuja western Golden Globe

Currently, the assortment of varieties of thuja is so large that difficulties arise with the acquisition of the most optimal option. However, there are varieties that have solid advantages. For example, Golden Globe (Thuja occidentalis Golden globe) are characterized by absolute unpretentiousness, high decorative effect and compact size. Having become a happy owner, you are unlikely to ever regret your purchase.

History of creation

This variety is a mutation of the western Woodwardie thuja variety. Our heroine differs from the original form in a lower growth rate, as well as in the color of the needles. The variety was exported from the United States by the gardener F. Grothendorst. The ephedra got its name already in the Netherlands thanks to the same enthusiast. The plant appeared on sale in 1963. In different literary sources, you can find several modified names of the culture: Golden Globe and Golden Globe. In the ranks of amateur gardeners, such names of this original plant as "yellow ball" and "yellow spherical thuja" are widespread.

Description

This variety belongs to the undersized forms. Its height varies from 0.8 to 1.5 meters. The diameter of the spherical crown is similar. The Golden Globe reaches its maximum size only at the age of 15-20 years.

The coniferous plant has a decorative appearance due not only to attractive contours, but also to an unusual double shade of scaly needles. Its bulk is painted in a bright emerald green color, and the edges are sustained in golden yellow tones. In the fall, the needles become reddish-brownish. A copper tint is typical for it in the winter season. In the spring, the original color returns to the tree. It is interesting that the rounded shape of the crown of this thuja does not change over time. It is supported by a large number of shoots that spread evenly to the sides. The growth of the ephedra is 8-10 cm per year.

The golden beauty has high winter hardiness. She feels good even when the temperature drops to -35 ° C. Unfortunately, an attractive bush is not so resistant to insect pests, but it is almost not affected by fungal diseases.

Agrotechnical features

The Golden Globe variety is photophilous, therefore it is better to plant it in a sunny place. The plant will develop well in openwork penumbra. A full shade for an ornamental bush is extremely undesirable, as it contributes to the loss of the needles of an unusual yellow shade, and the crown - a spherical shape and density. Does not like the plant and drafts.

Ephedra is planted in early autumn or spring. The culture is undemanding to the soil, however, in order to obtain a specimen with a decorative appearance, it is worth giving preference to a fertile, loose, slightly acidic soil. A moist loamy soil is optimal for a seedling. Overdried and too dense thuja soil is categorically not suitable. The recommended depth of the planting pit is from 60 to 80 cm. A drainage layer is required at the bottom of the hole, the soil mixture is made up of leafy earth, peat and sand. Specialized mineral fertilizers are also added there. When planting, the root collar of the Golden Globe should not be located below the soil level. After the ephedra has been planted, it must be well watered, and the area of ​​the near-trunk circle should be covered with mulch, for example, peat.

Young seedlings need frequent and abundant soil moisture until they take root. Later, watering is carried out in a moderate mode, however, in dry periods, the intensity of the procedure is increased. Excess moisture is harmful to thuja, as it can cause rotting of the root system and the development of a fungal disease. In extreme heat, it is advisable to sprinkle the crown with soft cool water.

From the age of two, ephedra are fed with universal fertilizer every spring. If necessary, carry out the formative pruning of the Golden Globe crown. If conifers are planted as a hedge, they must be cut periodically, shortening the shoots by 1/3 of the available length.Pruning of stems is also indicated in case of loss of density of needles. A gentle haircut ensures the growth of young shoots.

Only young specimens should be sheltered for the winter. In order to preserve their shape, a special dome is arranged over the adult plants, designed to protect the crown from snow.

Use cases

Thuja western of the described variety is appropriate on any personal plot. It can be placed in the front garden as part of group compositions and in the garden - in the form of small border hedges. The culture is combined with herbaceous perennials and other conifers. Monoplants of magnificent ephedra are also good. In landscape design, Golden Globe is used to decorate rock gardens. You can grow a dwarf bush in a container.