Good Morning Steve,

Thank you for contacting the U of M Extension Service. 

Please click on the following link from the U of M Extension Yard and Garden website: 

https://extension.umn.edu/planting-and-growing-guides/pruning-trees-and-shrubs#evergreens-1336764

If you scroll down, it discusses pruning of arborvitae. The information states: 

• Arborvitae, junipers, yews, and hemlocks grow continuously throughout the growing season.
  • They can be pruned any time through the middle of summer.
  • Even though these plants will tolerate heavy shearing, their natural form is usually most desirable, so prune only to correct growth defects.

Here is another link about arborvitae from the Missouri Botanical Garden: 

https://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?taxonid=274501

Good Luck!

Good Morning Steve,

Please click on the following link from the U of M Extension Yard and Garden website: https://extension.umn.edu/find-plants/trees-and-shrubs

If you scroll down, there is a database of trees and shrubs to review. 

Also, you can peruse the shrub lot at a local nursery. The tags on the shrubs should display the sun requirements and potential growth size. You could talk to a local nursery person for recommendations. 

Good Luck!