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How far apart to plant green giant arborvitae for privacy is 5 to 6 feet apart for a dense, solid privacy screen.
This spacing allows the fast-growing evergreens to knit together within a few years while giving each tree enough room for healthy root development.
Green giant arborvitae are one of the most popular choices for privacy because they grow up to 3 feet per year and stay green all winter long.
Getting the spacing right is the most important decision you’ll make when planting a privacy hedge with these trees.
If you plant them too close, you risk root competition and reduced growth over time.
If you plant them too far apart, you’ll have gaps in your privacy screen that can take years to fill completely.
In this post, we’ll cover exactly how far apart to plant green giant arborvitae for privacy and what factors influence the best spacing for your yard.
Let’s get started.
How Far Apart to Plant Green Giant Arborvitae for Privacy
The ideal spacing when determining how far apart to plant green giant arborvitae for privacy is 5 to 6 feet between each tree.
At this distance, the branches will begin to touch within 3 to 5 years, creating a seamless green wall.
Green giant arborvitae can reach 15 to 20 feet wide at maturity, so 5 to 6 feet gives them room to grow without overcrowding.
Here are the most common spacing options and what you can expect from each one.
1. Standard Privacy Spacing of 5 to 6 Feet
How far apart to plant green giant arborvitae for privacy comes down to 5 to 6 feet for most homeowners.
At this spacing, you get a thick screen without overcrowding the root systems.
The trees have enough space to develop strong roots and full, healthy foliage over time.
This is the sweet spot for balancing speed of fill-in with long-term tree health.
2. Tighter Spacing of 4 Feet for Faster Results
If you want privacy as quickly as possible, you can plant green giant arborvitae 4 feet apart.
This tighter spacing fills in sooner, usually within 2 to 3 years after planting.
However, you may need to remove every other tree later as they mature to prevent overcrowding.
This is a common approach when homeowners are willing to do some maintenance down the road.
3. Wider Spacing of 8 Feet for a Natural Look
Planting 8 feet apart is an option if you prefer a more natural, less formal appearance.
How far apart to plant green giant arborvitae for privacy at an 8-foot spacing means you’ll wait longer for fullness.
It can take 6 to 8 years for the branches to meet at this distance in optimal conditions.
This spacing works well if you have a large property and want a softer, more open screen.
4. Staggered Double Row for Maximum Density
If privacy is your absolute top priority, consider a staggered double row with trees 6 feet apart in each row.
Offset the second row by 3 feet so the trees fill in the gaps from the first row.
How far apart to plant green giant arborvitae for privacy in a double row gives you an almost instant, impenetrable screen.
This method requires more trees and more space but delivers unmatched density.
Factors That Affect How Far Apart to Plant Green Giant Arborvitae for Privacy
Several factors influence how far apart to plant green giant arborvitae for privacy in your specific yard.
Consider these before you decide on your final spacing to ensure the best results.
1. Mature Width of the Trees
Green giant arborvitae can grow 15 to 20 feet wide at full maturity.
When determining how far apart to plant green giant arborvitae for privacy, always account for this mature width.
If you plant too close, the trees may become stressed and less healthy over time.
Planning for their full size ensures a healthy, long-lasting privacy screen for decades.
2. Soil Quality and Drainage
In rich, well-draining soil, green giant arborvitae grow faster and wider each season.
This means how far apart to plant green giant arborvitae for privacy can be slightly wider in good soil.
In poor or compacted soil, growth slows, and closer spacing may be needed to achieve privacy sooner.
Test your soil drainage before planting to see what you’re working with.
3. Sunlight Exposure
Green giant arborvitae thrive in full sun to partial shade conditions.
In full sun, they grow denser and fuller, so spacing can be a bit wider if needed.
In shadier spots, growth is slower and less thick, so how far apart to plant green giant arborvitae for privacy may need to be closer.
Aim for at least 6 hours of direct sunlight per day for best growth results.
4. Your Timeline for Privacy
How quickly you need privacy affects how far apart to plant green giant arborvitae.
If you need a screen in 2 years, plant 4 to 5 feet apart for faster fill-in.
If you can wait 4 to 5 years, 6 to 8 feet apart is fine and healthier long term.
Be honest about your timeline so you choose the right spacing from the start.
Tips for Planting Green Giant Arborvitae for Privacy Success
Getting the spacing right is just one part of the equation for a great privacy hedge.
Here are some practical tips to ensure your green giant arborvitae thrive and give you the privacy you want.
1. Measure and Mark Your Row Carefully
Before you dig, mark out exactly where each tree will go in your yard.
Use stakes and string to visualize how far apart to plant green giant arborvitae for privacy in your space.
This prevents mistakes and ensures a straight, even row that looks professional.
Taking the time to measure now saves you headaches and rework later.
2. Prepare the Planting Holes Properly
Dig holes twice as wide as the root ball but no deeper than it.
This gives roots room to spread while keeping the tree at the right depth.
Proper soil preparation helps the trees establish faster, regardless of spacing chosen.
Amend the soil with compost if needed for better drainage and nutrients.
3. Water Consistently for the First Year
Newly planted green giant arborvitae need regular watering, especially in the first growing season.
Deep watering once a week encourages deep root growth and strong establishment.
This is important no matter how far apart to plant green giant arborvitae for privacy you choose.
Mulch around the base helps retain moisture and keeps roots cool in summer.
4. Prune for Shape and Density
Light pruning in early spring encourages bushier growth and fills in gaps faster.
Even with perfect spacing, a little pruning helps create a denser privacy screen.
Focus on trimming the tips of the branches to promote lateral branching.
5. Monitor for Pests and Diseases
Green giant arborvitae are generally pest-resistant, but keep an eye out for bagworms and spider mites.
Early detection makes treatment much easier and protects your privacy investment.
Healthy trees with proper spacing are less susceptible to most common issues.
So, How Far Apart to Plant Green Giant Arborvitae for Privacy?
How far apart to plant green giant arborvitae for privacy is 5 to 6 feet apart for most homeowners.
This spacing gives you a dense, solid screen within a few years while allowing each tree room to grow.
If you need privacy faster, go with 4 feet apart and accept some possible crowding later on.
If you’re on a budget or prefer a natural look, 8 feet apart works but takes longer to fill in.
The key is matching how far apart to plant green giant arborvitae for privacy with your specific goals, soil, sunlight, and timeline.
Plan carefully, prepare your site well, and your green giant arborvitae will reward you with a beautiful, living privacy screen for years to come.