How To Plant A Row Of Arborvitae

How to plant a row of arborvitae starts with careful planning and the right technique.
 
Planting a row of arborvitae isn’t complicated, but it does require a bit of know-how.
 
If you’ve been wondering how to plant a row of arborvitae that stays healthy and grows dense, you’re in the right place.
 
A row of arborvitae can create a beautiful privacy screen, windbreak, or property line border.
 
In this post, we’ll cover everything from choosing the best arborvitae varieties to the actual planting steps.
 
Let’s walk through how to plant a row of arborvitae the right way so you can enjoy lush greenery for years.
 

How to Plant a Row of Arborvitae: The Essentials

Before you dig, you need to understand what makes planting a row of arborvitae successful.
 
Here are the key factors to consider when you plant a row of arborvitae.
 

1. Choose the Right Arborvitae Variety

Not all arborvitae are the same, so picking the right type matters a lot.
 
For a dense privacy screen, look for upright varieties like ‘Emerald Green’ or ‘Green Giant’.
 
These grow tall and stay narrow, which is perfect when you plant a row of arborvitae.
 
Consider your climate and soil type because some arborvitae varieties handle cold or heat better.
 
Research the mature width so your row of arborvitae doesn’t become overcrowded.
 

2. Measure Proper Spacing for Your Row

Spacing is one of the most common mistakes when you plant a row of arborvitae.
 
If you space them too close, they’ll compete for nutrients and may not reach full potential.
 
If you space them too far apart, your privacy screen will have gaps.
 
For most arborvitae, aim for 3 to 5 feet between plants depending on the variety.
 
Check the tag or nursery advice so your row of arborvitae grows together nicely.
 

3. Pick the Right Season to Plant

The best time to plant a row of arborvitae is early spring or early fall.
 
Planting in cooler weather helps the roots establish before summer heat or winter frost.
 
Avoid planting during extreme heat or when the ground is frozen.
 
Timing your planting right gives your row of arborvitae the best start.
 

Preparing the Site for a Row of Arborvitae

Good preparation makes planting a row of arborvitae much easier and more successful.
 
Take time to get the site ready before you put any plants in the ground.
 

1. Clear the Area and Test Drainage

Remove weeds, grass, and rocks from the entire planting strip.
 
Arborvitae don’t like wet feet, so make sure your soil drains well.
 
If water puddles after rain, you might need to amend the soil or create a slight slope.
 
Proper drainage is a must when you plant a row of arborvitae.
 

2. Improve the Soil Quality

Arborvitae prefer slightly acidic to neutral soil that’s rich in organic matter.
 
Mix in compost or aged manure a few weeks before planting your row of arborvitae.
 
This adds nutrients and improves both drainage and moisture retention.
 
Soil testing is optional but recommended for the health of your row of arborvitae.
 

3. Ensure Full Sun or Partial Shade

Arborvitae grow best in full sun, meaning at least six hours of direct sunlight daily.
 
If you plant a row of arborvitae in too much shade, they may become thin and leggy.
 
Pick a location that gets good light so your row of arborvitae stays dense and green.
 

Step-by-Step: How to Plant a Row of Arborvitae

Now let’s get into the actual digging and planting process.
 
Follow these steps carefully when you plant a row of arborvitae.
 

1. Dig Consistent Holes

Mark where each arborvitae will go using stakes or string to keep the row straight.
 
Dig each hole about twice as wide as the root ball, but no deeper than the root ball height.
 
The depth is crucial because planting too deep can cause rot in your row of arborvitae.
 
Space the holes evenly according to your variety’s recommended spacing.
 

2. Position the Arborvitae

Gently remove the arborvitae from its container or burlap and place it in the hole.
 
Make sure the top of the root ball is level with or slightly above the ground.
 
Backfill with the original soil mixed with some compost, tamping lightly to remove air pockets.
 
Water thoroughly after you plant a row of arborvitae to settle the soil around the roots.
 

3. Mulch and Water Consistently

Apply a 2- to 3-inch layer of mulch around each plant, but keep it away from the trunk.
 
Mulch retains moisture, regulates soil temperature, and reduces weeds.
 
For the first growing season, water your row of arborvitae deeply once or twice a week.
 
Established arborvitae are more drought-tolerant, but consistent moisture helps them thrive.
 

So, How to Plant a Row of Arborvitae?

How to plant a row of arborvitae comes down to good planning, proper spacing, and careful installation.
 
You plant a row of arborvitae by selecting the right variety, preparing the site, digging holes at the correct depth, and giving them consistent water and mulch.
 
With these steps, planting a row of arborvitae becomes a straightforward weekend project.
 
Your row of arborvitae will grow into a beautiful living screen that adds privacy and value to your property.
 
Happy planting, and enjoy your new row of arborvitae.