Hi, I just purchased 10 thuja green giants by mail. To my surprise they are tiny, evidently a newly rooted cutting. I'm in zone 7 and it's been unseasonably warm. Should I plant these or winter them in a garage? Any info on these would be greatly appreciated. Thank you!
If potted and roots not bound plant out now in case the soil is still warm and aerated enough for some rooting out to take place. If bare-rooted or appear to need to be barerooted (due to root deformities being likely) probably better to overwinter in pots in cool and bright area, plant in spring. Watch for drying out, even in "storage" they will need to be watered. In may area there is sometimes also a problem with weevils getting into potted plants (or tubers) under cover during winter, possibly you may have to watch for these too. The two main causes for concern with planting out now are that these are tiny and newly rooted and that it is now December. Otherwise, this plant should not be affected by cold in USDA 7. If you do plant them out maybe plan on providing some extra protection during coldest winter spells, should severe weather occur this year. Anything that significantly reduces exposure of the tops (and immediately adjacent soil) to frigid winds and penetrating frosts will be suitable. If using something like hot caps or plastic shelters avoid having the foliage rest against the walls, and take them off during mild and bright weather so they don't get too warm.
