How Far Apart to Plant Arborvitae

Introduction

Arborvitae trees are evergreen conifers that are commonly used as ornamental trees in landscaping. They come in a variety of shapes and sizes and are great for adding privacy and beauty to your yard. If you're planning on planting arborvitae, one important consideration is how far apart to space them for optimal growth.

Factors to Consider

When deciding how far apart to plant arborvitae trees, there are several factors to consider. These include the mature size of the trees, the purpose of the planting, the soil conditions and the climate in your area.

Mature Size of Trees

The mature size of arborvitae trees varies depending on the species and cultivar. Some types of arborvitae can grow up to 60 feet tall, while others may only reach 4-5 feet in height. It's important to choose a tree species that will fit the space you have available and won't grow too large for the area. Check the tag that comes with your tree or do some research to determine the mature size of the trees you want to plant.

Purpose of Planting

Another factor to consider when spacing arborvitae trees is the purpose of the planting. If you're planting the trees for privacy, you'll want to space them closer together than if you're planting for aesthetics or windbreaks. For privacy screens or hedges, you'll want to space the trees around 4-5 feet apart. For other purposes, you can space them further apart, up to 10 or 12 feet.

Soil Conditions

The soil conditions in your area can also affect how far apart you should plant arborvitae trees. If you have well-draining soil, you can space them closer together. If your soil is heavy or clay-like, you'll want to space the trees further apart to give them room to spread their roots and avoid competition for water and nutrients. A good rule of thumb is to space the trees 1.5 times their estimated mature width apart.

Climate Considerations

Finally, the climate in your area can also affect how far apart to plant arborvitae trees. In colder climates, you'll want to space the trees closer together for wind protection and warmth. In warmer climates, you can space them further apart to allow for more air circulation.

Conclusion

In conclusion, how far apart to plant arborvitae trees depends on several factors, including the tree's mature size, the purpose of the planting, the soil conditions, and the climate in your area. By taking these factors into account, you can ensure that your arborvitae trees grow healthy and strong, and provide the desired effects in your landscaping.