How Far Apart Do I Plant Arborvitae Trees?

If you're looking for a tree that provides year-round greenery and privacy, arborvitae trees are an excellent choice. These trees have a conical shape and dense foliage, making them perfect for hedges or as accent trees in your landscaping. However, one question that many people have when planting arborvitae trees is how far apart they should be planted. In this article, we will explore the ideal spacing for arborvitae trees to ensure their health and beauty.

Determining the Right Spacing for Arborvitae Trees

The spacing of your arborvitae trees will largely depend on several factors, such as the size of the trees at maturity, the environment, and your intended use for them. For instance, if planting your arborvitae trees as a hedge, you will need to plant them closer together than if you're planting them as accent trees. Here are some spacing guidelines to consider when planting arborvitae trees:

Spacing for Arborvitae Trees as Hedges

When planting arborvitae trees as a hedge, the general rule of thumb is to space them between 2 and 3 feet apart. This spacing allows the young trees to grow together to create a dense hedge quickly. Once the trees have matured, you can trim them to your desired height and width to maintain their shape and structure.

Spacing for Arborvitae Trees as Accent Trees

If you're planting arborvitae trees as accent trees, the ideal spacing will depend on the size of the trees at maturity. In general, you should space arborvitae trees based on their mature width, which can range from 3 to 25 feet. For instance, if the mature width of your arborvitae tree is 10 feet, space them at least 10 feet apart. This spacing will allow the trees to grow fully while still leaving enough space between each one to showcase its unique shape and foliage.

Additional Factors That Affect Arborvitae Tree Spacing

Aside from the tree's expected size and intended use, other factors can affect the ideal spacing for arborvitae trees. These include:

Soil quality

Irrigation

Light exposure

Urban environment

For instance, if you're planting arborvitae trees in poor soil conditions, you may need to plant them closer together to ensure that they receive enough nutrients and water. Similarly, if you live in a city or urban environment that has poor air quality, you may need to plant your trees closer together to create a barrier against air pollution and noise. Additionally, if your trees will be grown in an area with hot, dry summers, you may need to space them further apart to ensure that they receive adequate water and sunlight.

Conclusion

Ultimately, the ideal spacing for arborvitae trees will depend on several factors, including their size, intended use, and environmental conditions. When planting these trees, it's important to consider these factors carefully to ensure that your trees grow to their full potential while also offering the functionality you desire. With the right spacing, your arborvitae trees can provide privacy, add beauty to your landscaping, and offer a range of benefits for years to come.