How Close Should Arborvitae Be Planted

Arborvitae should be planted close enough to create a dense hedge while avoiding overcrowding that harms growth.
 
How close should arborvitae be planted for a typical privacy screen?
 
Most experts recommend spacing them 3 to 4 feet apart.
 
This spacing allows the branches to interlock as they mature, forming a solid wall of green.
 
But planting arborvitae closer than 3 feet can lead to competition for water and nutrients.
 
In this guide, we’ll explore how close you should plant arborvitae based on variety and goals.
 
Whether you’re planting a single row or a double row, understanding how close to plant arborvitae is crucial for success.
 
Let’s get started with proper arborvitae spacing.
 

How Close Should Arborvitae Be Planted?

The ideal distance for planting arborvitae depends on whether you want a hedge, a windbreak, or a standalone specimen.
 
Here are the general guidelines for how close to plant arborvitae:
 

1. For a Privacy Hedge: 3 to 4 Feet Apart

When your goal is a dense privacy screen, plant arborvitae 3 to 4 feet apart.
 
This spacing ensures the shrubs grow together within a few years, blocking views effectively.
 
If you plant arborvitae any closer, say 2 feet, they may become stressed and develop bare patches.
 
So for most privacy hedges, 3 to 4 feet is the sweet spot for how close to plant arborvitae.
 
This distance works well for common varieties like Emerald Green and Green Giant.
 

2. For a Windbreak or Sound Barrier: 5 to 6 Feet Apart

If you need to reduce wind noise or create a windbreak, you can space arborvitae a bit farther apart.
 
Planting arborvitae 5 to 6 feet apart still allows them to form a barrier over time.
 
The wider spacing encourages each tree to grow fuller and stronger.
 
Remember that how close you plant arborvitae for a barrier should account for local wind patterns.
 
A wider spacing also allows more light to reach lower branches, reducing the chance of browning.
 

3. For Specimen Planting: 8 to 10 Feet Apart

If you’re planting arborvitae as individual focal points, give them plenty of room.
 
Space them at least 8 to 10 feet apart so each tree reaches its full shape.
 
When planting arborvitae as specimens, you don’t need them to touch, so wider spacing is best.
 
This approach also reduces disease risk compared to planting arborvitae very close together.
 
Wide spacing also makes maintenance easier, as you can access each tree without disturbing neighbors.
 

4. For a Natural Look: 6 to 8 Feet Apart

If you prefer a less formal appearance, space arborvitae 6 to 8 feet apart.
 
This gives each tree room to develop its natural shape without crowding.
 
It creates a softer screen that still offers privacy but with gaps between branches.
 

Factors That Affect How Close You Should Plant Arborvitae

Even with general guidelines, several factors influence how close you should plant arborvitae in your landscape.
 
Consider these elements before deciding on arborvitae planting distance.
 

1. Arborvitae Variety

Different arborvitae varieties have different mature widths.
 
For example, ‘Emerald Green’ arborvitae stays relatively narrow, around 3 to 4 feet wide.
 
So you can plant that variety closer, about 2 to 3 feet apart for a hedge.
 
But ‘Techny’ arborvitae grows wider, up to 6 feet, so they need more space.
 
Always check the mature width of your specific arborvitae when deciding how close to plant arborvitae.
 

2. Growing Conditions

Sunlight, soil quality, and water availability affect how quickly arborvitae fill in.
 
In full sun with rich soil, arborvitae grow faster and may need slightly wider spacing.
 
In poor or dry soil, planting arborvitae a bit closer can help them support each other.
 
But never plant them so close that roots compete for moisture.
 

3. Desired Hedge Density

If you want an instantly thick screen, you might be tempted to plant arborvitae very close.
 
However, planting arborvitae too densely reduces airflow and increases disease risk.
 
A moderate spacing of 3 to 4 feet still gives a dense look after a few years.
 
Patience pays off when deciding how close to plant arborvitae for long-term health.
 

4. Climate Zone

In colder climates, arborvitae may grow more slowly.
 
So you might plant them slightly closer to achieve coverage faster.
 
In warmer zones, faster growth means you can space them farther apart.
 
Adjust your arborvitae planting distance based on your local climate for best results.
 

5. Soil Drainage

Arborvitae prefer well-drained soil to avoid root rot.
 
If your soil is clay-heavy and holds moisture, space them a bit wider for airflow.
 
This helps prevent fungal issues when planting arborvitae close together.
 

Tips for Planting Arborvitae at the Right Distance

Once you’ve determined how close to plant arborvitae, follow these tips for success.
 
Proper installation ensures your arborvitae thrive at any spacing.
 

1. Measure Twice, Dig Once

Before digging holes, mark out the positions with stakes or string.
 
Double-check that your spacing matches the recommendation for how close you should plant arborvitae.
 
It’s easier to adjust the layout now than to move established plants later.
 

2. Prepare the Soil

Loosen the soil in a wide area around each planting hole.
 
This encourages roots to spread outward rather than compete when planting arborvitae close together.
 
Add compost if your soil is poor to give your arborvitae a strong start.
 

3. Water Well After Planting

Even with perfect spacing, new arborvitae need consistent moisture.
 
Water deeply once a week, especially during the first year.
 
Proper hydration helps them fill in the gaps when planted at the recommended distance.
 

4. Consider Staggered Planting

For a thicker screen, plant arborvitae in a staggered double row.
 
Set the rows about 4 to 5 feet apart, with plants offset.
 
This arrangement lets you plant arborvitae closer within each row while still giving roots room.
 

5. Mulch After Planting

Apply a 2-3 inch layer of mulch around each arborvitae.
 
Mulch retains moisture and keeps soil temperature stable.
 
It also reduces weed competition, helping your arborvitae establish quickly.
 

So, How Close Should Arborvitae Be Planted?

Arborvitae should be planted close enough to form a solid hedge but with enough space for healthy growth.
 
The general rule for how close to plant arborvitae is 3 to 4 feet apart for privacy, 5 to 6 feet for windbreaks, and 8 to 10 feet for specimens.
 
Always consider the variety, your climate, and your goals to choose the best arborvitae planting distance.
 
For a natural look, 6 to 8 feet works well, while staggered planting offers extra density.
 
Hope this guide helps you decide how close should arborvitae be planted so they thrive and create the screen you want.