How Close Should You Plant Cedar Trees?

When it comes to landscaping, cedar trees are a popular choice among both homeowners and commercial property owners alike. Cedar trees are prized for their beauty, versatility, and ability to provide privacy and shade. However, one common question that arises when planting cedar trees is how close they should be planted. In this article, we'll explore the factors that affect the spacing of cedar trees and the ideal distance for planting these trees.

Factors Affecting Cedar Tree Spacing

Before we delve into the ideal spacing for cedar trees, it's important to understand the factors that can influence tree spacing. Here are some key considerations:

Size and Growth Habit

The size and growth habit of your chosen cedar tree species will play a key role in determining how far apart they should be planted. Some cedar trees, like Eastern red cedar and white cedar, have a slower growth rate and can be planted closer together. Others, like Western red cedar and giant cedar, grow more quickly and require more space between them.

Purpose of the Cedar Trees

The reason for planting cedar trees is also an important consideration when determining spacing. If privacy or screening is the goal, planting cedar trees closer together is advised. However, if the cedar trees are intended to serve as accent pieces, they should be planted further apart to give them room to mature and showcase their beauty.

Climate and Soil

The climate and soil in which the cedar trees will be planted should also be taken into account. For example, if your property experiences high winds or heavy snowfall, you'll want to plant cedar trees further apart to prevent damage. Conversely, cedar trees may need to be planted closer together in areas with poor soil or a lack of rainfall to provide sufficient support to each other.

Ideal Cedar Tree Spacing

Based on the factors mentioned above, the ideal cedar tree spacing may vary. However, here are some general guidelines to follow:

Small Cedar Trees (under 20 feet tall)

If you're planting small cedar trees, like Eastern red cedar or white cedar, you can generally space them about six to eight feet apart. This will provide enough space for the trees to grow and mature without crowding each other.

Medium Cedar Trees (20-40 feet tall)

Medium-sized cedar trees, like Western red cedar and giant cedar, should be spaced at least ten to twelve feet apart. This will give them enough space to reach their full potential without crowding each other or competing for resources.

Large Cedar Trees (over 40 feet tall)

For larger cedar trees, like Atlas cedar or Lebanon cedar, you'll want to space them at least fifteen to twenty feet apart. Larger cedar trees require more space to grow and develop a strong root system. It's also important to keep in mind that larger cedar trees can cast a significant amount of shade on neighboring plants, so it's best to plant them with this in mind.

Conclusion

Ultimately, the ideal cedar tree spacing will depend on a variety of factors specific to your property and climate. However, as a general rule of thumb, you should aim to space cedar trees based on their size and growth habit, intended purpose, and the environment in which they'll be planted. By following these guidelines, you can ensure that your cedar trees grow and thrive for years to come.