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American Pillar arborvitae should be planted 2 to 3 feet apart for a thick privacy hedge.
This planting distance ensures the trees fill in quickly without overcrowding.
If you’re asking how far apart to plant American Pillar arborvitae, the sweet spot is between 2 and 3 feet.
The exact spacing depends on how fast you want the screen and your budget.
In this guide, we’ll explore the ideal spacing for American Pillar arborvitae and factors to consider.
Let’s get started on planting American Pillar arborvitae at the right distance.
We’ll cover everything you need to know for a successful hedge.
How Far Apart to Plant American Pillar Arborvitae
1. For a Dense Privacy Screen: 2 Feet Apart
When you plant American Pillar arborvitae 2 feet apart, you’re investing in a solid wall of green.
This spacing is popular for homeowners who want privacy quickly.
The trees will start touching within a year or two.
And by the third year, you’ll have a nearly impenetrable screen.
It’s the go-to choice for blocking out neighbors or road noise.
You’ll need about 50 trees for a 100-foot row.
This density is common in professional landscaping.
2. For a More Moderate Screen: 3 Feet Apart
Spacing American Pillar arborvitae 3 feet apart is a great middle ground.
You still get a nice hedge, but it takes a bit longer to fill in.
This spacing saves you money because you need fewer plants.
For example, a 100-foot row at 3 feet apart requires about 33 trees.
At 2 feet apart, you’d need 50 trees, so the savings add up.
Many gardeners choose this spacing for a balance of cost and coverage.
It’s the best choice for most residential properties.
3. For Specimen Planting: More Than 3 Feet Apart
If you’re not after a hedge, you can plant American Pillar arborvitae as accent trees.
Space them 4 to 6 feet apart to let each tree show off its columnar form.
This works well along driveways, at corners, or as a backdrop for flowers.
They won’t create a solid screen, but they’ll add structure to your landscape.
Just remember, the wider the spacing, the more you’ll see each individual tree.
This can be a lovely look for formal landscapes.
Factors That Affect How Far Apart to Plant American Pillar Arborvitae
1. Growth Rate and Mature Size
American Pillar arborvitae is a fast grower, adding up to 3 feet of height each year.
At maturity, they reach 15 to 20 feet tall with a spread of only 3 to 4 feet.
This narrow profile is why you can plant them so close together.
Wider arborvitae varieties need more space, but American Pillar thrives in tight spacing.
Knowing these dimensions helps you plan how far apart to plant American Pillar arborvitae.
Measure the area first to calculate the number of trees needed.
Also keep in mind that they can live for decades.
2. Soil and Sunlight Conditions
To plant American Pillar arborvitae with confidence, ensure they get full sun.
They also need well-drained soil to prevent root rot.
In poor soil, growth slows down, so closer spacing might not fill in as expected.
If your soil is heavy clay or sandy, amend it with organic matter.
Then, stick with 3 feet apart to reduce competition for limited nutrients.
Good soil prep makes your spacing decisions work better.
Test your soil pH and adjust if necessary for optimal growth.
3. Climate and Wind Exposure
Windy sites can stress arborvitae, causing them to dry out.
Planting American Pillar arborvitae closer together, like 2 feet apart, helps them protect each other.
They form a windbreak that reduces moisture loss and damage.
In calm, mild climates, you can use a wider spacing like 3 feet.
Always consider your local weather patterns when deciding how far apart to plant American Pillar arborvitae.
Sheltered spots allow for more flexibility in spacing.
Tips for Planting American Pillar Arborvitae at the Right Distance
1. Measure and Mark Your Spacing
Before you dig, measure the entire planting area.
Use stakes and string to mark where each American Pillar arborvitae will go.
Consistent spacing ensures a uniform hedge that looks professional.
Double-check distances to avoid gaps or crowding.
This simple step saves time and trouble later.
Accurate spacing prevents gaps that take years to fill.
It’s a small investment of time that pays off.
2. Prepare the Soil Well
Loosen the soil in a wide circle around each planting hole.
This encourages roots to spread outward and establish quickly.
Mix in compost or a slow-release fertilizer for a nutrient boost.
Good soil preparation supports healthy growth at any spacing.
It’s worth the extra effort for long-term success.
3. Water and Mulch After Planting
Give each tree a deep soak immediately after planting.
Then, water consistently for the first year, especially during dry spells.
Apply a 2- to 3-inch layer of mulch around the base, but keep it off the trunk.
Mulch retains moisture and keeps roots cool, helping your spacing pay off.
Avoid piling mulch against the trunk to prevent rot.
Benefits of Proper Spacing for American Pillar Arborvitae
1. Healthier Trees
When you plant American Pillar arborvitae at the right distance, each tree gets enough sunlight and nutrients.
Overcrowding can lead to shaded lower branches that die back.
Healthy trees are more resistant to pests and diseases.
This means less money spent on treatments.
And your trees will look their best year-round.
2. Faster Privacy Screen
Optimal spacing helps the hedge fill in faster.
At 2 feet apart, the branches interlock sooner than at wider gaps.
You’ll enjoy your privacy screen years earlier than with poor spacing.
That’s a huge advantage when you need screening fast.
3. Easier Maintenance
Properly spaced trees are easier to prune, water, and inspect.
You can walk between them for care without damaging branches.
This makes long-term maintenance much simpler.
You’ll spend less time trimming and more time enjoying your garden.
So, How Far Apart to Plant American Pillar Arborvitae?
American Pillar arborvitae should be planted 2 to 3 feet apart for a privacy hedge.
The exact distance depends on your patience, budget, and desired density.
At 2 feet apart, you get a quick screen; at 3 feet, a more gradual but cost-effective one.
For individual accent trees, space them 4 to 6 feet apart to showcase their shape.
We hope this guide helps you decide how far apart to plant American Pillar arborvitae for your landscape.
Happy planting, and enjoy your beautiful new green wall!
With the right spacing, you’ll have a stunning screen in no time.