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browning green giant

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From: mike shaw City: glenview, IL
Hello, we planted some green giants along our backyard last spring. they are about 6feet tall. This year, the growth is not heavy yet but I have noticed excessive brown cones. the problem is with scant leaves and excessive cones, it looks pretty ugly compared to the traditional emerald green arborvitaes around us. Is there any hope for a better look with time?
	Extension Message From: Richard Hentschel Extension Educator, Horticulture DuPage/Kane/Kendall Unit hentsche@illinois.edu
The cones are the result of a heavy seed set and a normal function of the arborvitae. Limited needle growth this year is likely the result of being transplanted just this spring. You should expect an improved look as the plants become established. This can take 2-3 years. Be sure to water them late this fall as you put the hose away for the winter. If it is a windy area, consider a temporay wind break to lesson the stress this winter
From: Jan Bouma City: Caledonia , MI
How do you make the windbreak for arborvitae?
	Extension Message From: Richard Hentschel Extension Educator, Horticulture DuPage/Kane/Kendall Unit hentsche@illinois.edu
Rather than attempting one large effort perhaps wrapping each one in burlap would be easier. any large piece of fabric will work to like old bed sheets is socially acceptable to your neighbors. getting burlap from a fabric store will be WAY to costly, check out the larger garden centers who often sell large sheets or rolls. Anti-desiccants may also be another option. this material is sprayed on late in the season and may need to be repeated in early spring.
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