How Close Can a Cedar Tree be Planted

Cedar trees are a popular choice for landscaping due to their beautiful foliage, hardiness, and versatility. If you are planning to plant cedar trees in your yard, one of the most critical considerations is the appropriate spacing. But how close can a cedar tree be planted? In this article, we explore the best practices for planting cedar trees and how far apart you should space them to ensure their health and longevity.

Factors to Consider

The appropriate spacing for cedar trees depends on several factors, including the species of cedar, soil quality, water availability, and the layout of your yard. Some cedars grow taller and wider than others, while some have deeper roots that require more space to grow. The nutrients found in the soil and the availability of water can also determine the distance between each tree you plant.

When planning the spacing for your cedar trees, you should consider the size of your yard and your intention for the trees. If you're planting for aesthetic purposes, you might want to space them closer together than if you're aiming to create a windbreak or privacy screen.

Recommended Spacing for Cedar Trees

The recommended spacing for cedar trees is typically 10 feet to 20 feet apart, depending on their species and anticipated height and width. Eastern Red Cedars, for example, can grow anywhere from 20 feet to 40 feet tall and 10 to 20 feet wide, so they should be spaced accordingly. If planting them for privacy purposes, you may want to space them closer together than if you were aiming for an ornamental purpose.

Cedar trees should also be planted at a sufficient distance from buildings, power lines, and sidewalks. As a rule of thumb, no cedar tree should be planted closer than 8 feet from a building, and any trees planted near sidewalks, roads, or power lines should be positioned at least 10 feet away.

The Importance of Proper Spacing

At first, it may be tempting to plant cedar trees close together to fill up empty spaces or to create an immediate visual impact. However, planting trees too closely can lead to several problems in the long run.

Cedar trees that are planted too closely together will eventually compete for resources such as light, water, and nutrients, which can stunt their growth and reduce their overall health. They can also become tangled and misshapen as they jostle for space, which can impact their structural integrity and make them more susceptible to disease, pests, and wind damage.

Furthermore, planting cedar trees too close to buildings or power lines can cause damage later on as the trees' roots push against the foundations or the branches interfere with power lines. Proper placement of your cedar trees is crucial to ensure that they are not only healthy and strong but safe for your property and those around you.

Conclusion

The spacing of cedar trees depends on several factors, including the species of cedar, soil quality, water availability, and your intended purpose. While it may be tempting to plant them more closely together, keeping the trees a minimum of 10-20 feet apart is crucial to ensure their health and vitality. Proper spacing also helps to prevent damage to your property and enables your cedar trees to grow strong and healthy for many years to come.