When it comes to planting eastern red cedars, it is important to consider the spacing between each tree. The ideal spacing will depend on various factors including the specific purpose of the planting, the size of the area, and the desired outcome.
For seedlings of eastern red cedar, it is generally recommended to plant them in a firm, weed-free bed. This ensures that the young trees have a strong foundation and are not competing with weeds for nutrients and water. The spacing between each seedling should be between 3 to 6 feet.
The reason for this range in spacing is because it allows the trees enough room to grow and develop without being overcrowded. A spacing of 3 feet may be suitable if you want a denser planting, such as for a windbreak or privacy screen. On the other hand, a spacing of 6 feet may be more appropriate if you want to allow the trees to have more space to spread out and develop a fuller, natural shape.
When deciding on the spacing, it is also important to consider the ultimate size of the eastern red cedar trees. These trees can reach heights of up to 50 feet and have a spread of around 15 to 20 feet. By spacing the seedlings appropriately, you are ensuring that each tree has enough room to reach its full potential without being hindered by neighboring trees.
In addition to spacing the trees properly, it is also important to consider the overall design and layout of your planting area. If you are creating a windbreak or privacy screen, you may want to plant the trees in rows, with each row spaced a certain distance apart. This allows for maximum effectiveness in blocking wind and providing privacy.
On the other hand, if you are planting eastern red cedars for aesthetic purposes, you may want to consider a more irregular spacing pattern. This can create a more natural and visually appealing look, mimicking the way trees grow in the wild.
In my personal experience, I have planted eastern red cedars in both dense and more spaced out arrangements. For a windbreak on my property, I opted for a closer spacing of around 3 feet between each tree. This created a dense and effective barrier against strong winds and provided privacy from neighboring properties.
In another area of my garden, I planted eastern red cedars with a spacing of around 6 feet. This allowed the trees to develop a more natural shape and gave them room to spread out. The result was a beautiful cluster of trees that added visual interest to the landscape.
The recommended spacing for planting eastern red cedars is between 3 to 6 feet, depending on your specific needs and preferences. Consider the purpose of the planting, the size of the area, and the desired outcome when determining the spacing between each tree. By giving the trees enough room to grow and develop, you are ensuring their long-term health and creating a visually pleasing landscape.
