How far apart should Thuja be?

When it comes to spacing Thuja trees, there are a few factors to consider, such as the variety of Thuja, the desired height of the hedge, and the overall landscape design. As a gardening and landscaping expert, I can provide you with some general guidelines for spacing Thuja trees.

Firstly, it’s important to note that smaller and shorter Thuja varieties can be planted closer together than taller and more vigorous ones. This is because larger trees require more space to grow and spread out. One popular variety, the Thuja Green Giant, is known for its fast growth and can reach heights of up to 60 feet or more. For this variety, it is recommended to plant them about 5-6 feet apart to allow enough space for their mature size.

On the other hand, if you are looking to create a shorter hedge, such as one that is around 8-10 feet tall, you can space the Thuja trees closer together. In this case, a spacing of 3-4 feet apart should be sufficient. This closer spacing will allow the trees to grow together and create a dense, full hedge.

It’s worth mentioning that these spacing recommendations are not set in stone and can vary depending on your specific needs and preferences. If you desire a more open and airy hedge, you can space the trees a bit further apart. Conversely, if you want a very dense and compact hedge, you may want to plant them even closer together.

In addition to spacing, it’s important to consider other factors such as soil conditions, sunlight exposure, and overall maintenance requirements. Thuja trees prefer well-draining soil and full sun to thrive. If you have poor soil conditions or limited sunlight, it may be necessary to provide additional care and amendments to ensure the health of your Thuja trees.

In my personal experience, I have had success spacing Thuja trees about 5 feet apart for a hedge that reaches a height of around 12 feet. This spacing allowed the trees to grow together nicely and create a beautiful privacy screen in my backyard. However, I have also seen instances where Thuja trees were spaced closer together, resulting in a more compact and dense hedge.

The spacing of Thuja trees depends on the variety, desired height of the hedge, and overall landscape design. Smaller and shorter Thuja varieties can be planted closer together, while larger and more vigorous ones require more space. A spacing of 3-4 feet apart is suitable for shorter hedges, while 5-6 feet apart is recommended for taller varieties like the Thuja Green Giant. It’s important to consider other factors such as soil conditions and sunlight exposure to ensure the health and vitality of your Thuja trees.

Photo of author

Caroline Bates

Caroline is a Miami-based landscaper who specializes in drought-tolerant landscapes. She is the mother of two young children and also enjoys writing for GreenPacks.org in her spare time. Caroline takes great pride in her work, and loves being able to share her knowledge with others through her writing.