When it comes to planting Arborvitae, also known as Thuja, the distance between each plant is crucial for their growth and overall appearance. The spacing you choose will depend on your specific goals and needs. Here are some factors to consider when determining how far apart to plant Arborvitae:
1. Purpose of planting: Are you planting Arborvitae for privacy, as a windbreak, or simply for aesthetic reasons? This will influence the spacing you choose. For a dense and effective privacy screen or windbreak, a double staggered row is recommended. This means planting the trees in two rows, with each tree offset from the one in front of it. This arrangement provides optimal coverage and density.
2. Growth rate: Arborvitae species vary in their growth rates. Some varieties, like the ‘Green Giant’ Arborvitae, can grow up to 3 feet per year, while others may have a slower growth rate. Consider the growth rate of the specific Arborvitae variety you are planting when determining spacing.
3. Desired maturity size: Take into account the mature size of the Arborvitae variety you are planting. Some cultivars can reach heights of 30 to 60 feet, while others are more compact, staying around 10 to 15 feet. If you want a dense and full-grown hedge, closer spacing might be appropriate. However, if you prefer a more open and natural look, wider spacing may be desired.
4. Soil and environmental conditions: The soil quality and environmental conditions of your planting site can also impact the spacing of Arborvitae. If you have poor soil, it may be best to space the trees slightly farther apart to allow for better root development and nutrient absorption. Similarly, if your site experiences harsh weather conditions, closer spacing can provide more protection and wind resistance.
Considering these factors, a general guideline for planting Arborvitae is to space them 6 feet apart in a double staggered row. This spacing allows for ample room for growth and creates a dense privacy screen or windbreak over time. However, if you are looking for quicker privacy or have a more compact Arborvitae variety, you can plant them 3 to 4 feet apart.
Personal Experience:
In my own landscaping projects, I have planted Arborvitae with various spacing depending on the desired outcome. In one instance, I planted a row of ‘Green Giant’ Arborvitae to create a privacy screen between my backyard and a neighboring property. I spaced them 6 feet apart in a double staggered row, and over the years, they have grown into a beautiful, dense hedge that provides excellent privacy.
On another occasion, I wanted to create a more open and natural-looking windbreak along the edge of my property. For this purpose, I chose a compact Arborvitae variety and spaced them 10 feet apart. This wider spacing allowed each tree to have more room to spread its branches and gave the windbreak a more relaxed and airy appearance.
Ultimately, the spacing of Arborvitae should be tailored to your specific goals and the characteristics of the Arborvitae variety you are planting. Considering factors such as purpose, growth rate, mature size, and site conditions will help you determine the ideal spacing for your Arborvitae planting.
