Plant these lovely conifers in an attractive planter for on the patio. Ensure a layer of gravel in the bottom and use potting compost with a mix of sand. Soak the root balls in a bucket of water for a while before planting. When planting in the pot, keep the top of the root ball level with the soil in the pot (leave about an inch from the top free for watering). Press firmly down and water immediately. Only water again when the soil feels dry to the touch. Stand the planter in part shade although when it’s growing, the conifer can take full sun – just don’t let it dry out. The sun affects the colour so, lots of sun, lots of colour!

Thuja occidentalis is a strong evergreen conifer that requires little or no maintenance. Water during dry periods so that the soil does not dry out.

These evergreen conifers will reach a height of about 80 cm in ten years. Thuja's turn from green/yellowish-green to a beautiful reddish-brown colour in the autumn. They are wind resistant, very hardy and just a joy to behold.