How far apart should you plant arborvitae for privacy?

When it comes to creating a privacy hedge, spacing is crucial to ensure that your arborvitae trees grow and fill in properly. In the case of the Emerald Green Arborvitae, a spacing of about 3 feet apart on center is recommended. This means that the distance between the center of one tree to the center of the next tree should be approximately 3 feet.

The reason for this spacing recommendation is that the Emerald Green Arborvitae has a dense foliage that provides excellent coverage and privacy. However, planting them too close together can result in a crowded and unhealthy hedge. By giving each tree enough space to grow and spread out, you allow for proper air circulation and light penetration, which is essential for the overall health and vitality of the hedge.

It is important to note that the Emerald Green Arborvitae is fairly even in width from top to bottom. This means that the spacing between trees should remain consistent throughout the entire height of the hedge. Avoid planting the trees too close together at the base and then gradually increasing the spacing towards the top. This can result in a lopsided and uneven appearance.

In my personal experience as a gardener and landscaper, I have found that following the recommended spacing guidelines for arborvitae hedges is crucial for their long-term success. I have seen instances where homeowners have planted their trees too close together in an attempt to achieve instant privacy. Unfortunately, this often leads to issues such as overcrowding, poor air circulation, and increased susceptibility to pests and diseases.

By spacing the trees appropriately, you not only promote the health and longevity of the hedge but also allow each tree to reach its full potential in terms of height and width. This will ultimately result in a more aesthetically pleasing and effective privacy screen.

To help visualize the recommended spacing, imagine a row of arborvitae trees planted in a straight line. Each tree should be equidistant from its neighbors, with a consistent spacing of 3 feet between them. This will create a uniform and cohesive look when the trees mature and form a dense hedge.

When planting Emerald Green Arborvitae for privacy, it is best to space them approximately 3 feet apart on center. This spacing allows for proper air circulation, light penetration, and healthy growth, resulting in a beautiful and effective privacy hedge. Remember to maintain consistent spacing throughout the height of the hedge for an even and balanced appearance.

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.