How Far Apart Should Arborvitae Trees Be Planted

Arborvitae trees make great additions to any landscape, with their tall size and evergreen foliage adding a touch of elegance and privacy to any outdoors space. However, if you're planning to plant arborvitae trees in your yard or garden, deciding on the ideal spacing between them can be a tricky task. In this article, we will guide you on how far apart arborvitae trees should be planted, based on their species, size, and growth habits.

The Importance of Proper Spacing of Arborvitae Trees

Spacing your arborvitae trees properly is crucial for their healthy growth and optimal appearance. While planting them too close together may lead to competition for nutrients, sunlight, and water and create a breeding ground for pests and diseases, leaving too much space between them can cause the trees to look awkward and sparse. The ideal distance between arborvitae trees depends on various factors, such as the species, the size of the trees when planting, and the growth rate they exhibit.

Spacing Arborvitae Trees by Species

Arborvitae trees come in different species, each with its distinct characteristics, growth habits, and preferences. Here is a guide on the most common arborvitae tree species and their recommended planting distances:

American Arborvitae Trees

The American arborvitae tree, also known as the eastern white cedar, is a fast-growing species that can reach up to 60 feet tall and 20 feet wide at maturity. When planting American arborvitae trees, keep a distance of at least 10 feet between each tree. If you're planting a hedge or privacy screen, space the trees 5-6 feet apart.

Emerald Green Arborvitae Trees

The Emerald Green arborvitae tree is a popular species known for its pyramid-like shape and dense foliage. It grows up to 14 feet tall and 4 feet wide at maturity, making it a perfect choice for small gardens and tight spaces. When planting Emerald Green arborvitae trees, space them 3 to 4 feet apart for a tight hedge, and 5 to 6 feet apart for room to grow.

Giant Arborvitae Trees

The Giant arborvitae tree, also called the Green Giant, is a fast-growing species that can reach up to 60 feet tall and 15 feet wide at maturity. It's an excellent choice for creating a privacy screen or windbreak. When planting Giant arborvitae trees, space them at least 10 feet apart and prune them regularly to maintain their shape and size.

Other Factors to Consider When Planting Arborvitae Trees

Besides the species, there are several other factors to consider when deciding how far apart to plant your arborvitae trees, such as:

The Size of the Trees When Planting

The size of the arborvitae trees when planting determines how much space they would need to grow and thrive. If you're planting mature or larger trees, they will require more space than younger ones. Ensure that you give them enough room to grow without overcrowding or suffocating each other.

The Growth Rate of the Trees

The growth rate of an arborvitae tree determines how fast it will fill up the gap and reach its full size. Some species like the Giant arborvitae tree grow fast, while others like the Emerald Green arborvitae tree grow more slowly. Ensure that you give your trees enough space to reach their full size without impeding each other's growth.

The Purpose of Planting Arborvitae Trees

The purpose of planting arborvitae trees can also determine how far apart you should space them. If you're planting them for privacy, you should space them closer together than if you're planting them for ornamentation or windbreaks. Additionally, consider their height and shape when spacing them since some species like the Emerald Green arborvitae tree have a slender and more upright growth habit, while others like the Giant arborvitae tree have a broader and more vertical growth habit.

Conclusion

Arborvitae trees are excellent plants that can add beauty, privacy, and elegance to your landscape. However, planting them too close together or too far apart can compromise their growth, appearance, and overall health. Use this guide to determine how far apart to plant your arborvitae trees based on their species, size, and growth rate for a lush, healthy, and visually appealing landscape.