North Pole® Cedar: The Space-Saving Privacy Solution for Narrow Canadian Yards

North Pole® Cedar: The Space-Saving Privacy Solution for Narrow Canadian Yards

Are you dreaming of a lush, evergreen hedge but worried your yard is too small? Meet the North Pole® Cedar (Thuja occidentalis 'Art Boe'). For many Canadian homeowners—especially those in newer developments with narrow side yards—traditional cedars can quickly become "too much tree" for the space.

As a specialized cedar tree nursery shipping across Canada, we believe the North Pole® is the secret weapon for urban landscaping. It offers the height you need for privacy without the "bulge" that eats up your patio space.


Why the North Pole® Cedar is a Game Changer

Developed by renowned plantsman Art Boe, this cultivar was specifically bred to withstand the harsh realities of a northern climate while maintaining a strictly columnar silhouette.

  • Ultra-Narrow Profile: While a White Cedar or Green Giant can spread 10–15 feet wide, the North Pole® stays remarkably slim, usually topping out at just 3 to 5 feet wide.

  • Impressive Height: Don't let the slim waistline fool you. These trees can reach 12 to 15 feet tall, providing excellent "second-story" privacy from neighboring windows.

  • Winter Burn Resistance: One of the biggest complaints about cedars in Canada is browning in the spring. The North Pole® is highly resistant to winter burn, keeping its deep green color even through a polar vortex.

  • Extreme Hardiness: Rated for Zone 3, this tree is tough enough for the Prairies and the coldest parts of Ontario and Quebec.


Perfect Use Cases for North Pole® Cedars

Because of its unique "pillar" shape, this cedar is more versatile than almost any other evergreen for sale today:

  1. Narrow Side Yards: Create a "green wall" between houses where space is limited to a few feet.

  2. Framing Entrances: Plant a pair on either side of a front door or gate for a formal, upscale look.

  3. Accent Groupings: Plant them in groups of three at varying heights to add vertical interest to a garden bed.

  4. Container Planting: Because they grow vertically rather than horizontally, they thrive in large, well-insulated pots on balconies or decks.


Planting & Care Tips for Success

To get the most out of your North Pole® Cedar nursery stock, follow these simple guidelines:

  • Spacing for Privacy: If you want a solid hedge, space them 2.5 to 3 feet apart (trunk to trunk). Because they are so narrow, they need to be closer together than other varieties to close the gaps.

  • Sun Requirements: Like most Thuja, they perform best in full sun to partial shade.

  • Soil & Water: They prefer moist, well-drained soil. In the first two years, ensure they receive consistent deep watering, especially during dry Canadian summers.

  • No Pruning Required: One of the best "lazy gardener" perks? The North Pole® naturally maintains its elegant shape. You almost never have to shear it.


Comparison: North Pole® vs. Emerald Cedar

Feature North Pole® Cedar Emerald Green Cedar
Hardiness Zone 3 (Tougher) Zone 4/5 (Moderate)
Width 3–5 Feet (Very Narrow) 4–5 Feet (Pyramidal)
Color Dark, Rich Green Bright, Shimmering Green
Growth Habit Columnar/Pillar Pyramidal/Cone

Get Quality North Pole® Cedars Delivered to Your Door

At our nursery, we take pride in growing hardy, resilient North Pole® Cedars that are ready to tackle the Canadian climate. Whether you're in Calgary, Toronto, or Charlottetown, we ship high-quality, field-grown trees directly to your property.