How To Plant Arborvitae As Privacy Hedges

You can plant arborvitae as privacy hedges by following a few straightforward steps.
 
If you’ve been wondering how to plant arborvitae as privacy hedges, the process is simpler than you might think.
 
Arborvitae are popular for their dense foliage and upright growth, making them an excellent choice for creating natural screens.
 
In this post, we’ll cover exactly how to plant arborvitae as privacy hedges, including variety selection, spacing, and ongoing care.
 
Let’s walk through the steps together.
 

How to Plant Arborvitae as Privacy Hedges: The Core Steps

To successfully plant arborvitae as privacy hedges, start with proper site preparation.
 

1. Choose the Right Time to Plant Arborvitae as Privacy Hedges

The best time to plant arborvitae as privacy hedges is in early spring or early fall.
 
Planting when temperatures are mild helps roots establish before extreme heat or frost arrives.
 
Avoid planting during the peak of summer or deep winter, as stress can slow growth.
 

2. Prepare the Soil Before You Plant Arborvitae as Privacy Hedges

Arborvitae thrive in well-draining soil with a slightly acidic to neutral pH.
 
Before you plant arborvitae as privacy hedges, test your soil and amend it with compost if needed.
 
Dig a trench or individual holes that are twice as wide as the root ball but no deeper.
 
Loose, aerated soil encourages strong root spread and reduces the risk of waterlogging.
 

3. Measure the Correct Spacing When Planting Arborvitae as Privacy Hedges

Spacing is critical when you plant arborvitae as privacy hedges.
 
For a dense hedge, space plants 3 to 4 feet apart, depending on the variety.
 
Tighter spacing creates a solid screen faster, but wider spacing allows each shrub to grow naturally.
 
Always check the mature width of your chosen arborvitae cultivar before setting them in the ground.
 

4. Set the Plants at the Right Depth

When you plant arborvitae as privacy hedges, place each shrub so the root ball is level with the surrounding soil.
 
Planting too deep can cause root rot, while planting too high exposes roots to air and dryness.
 
Gently backfill the soil, tamp it down to remove air pockets, and water thoroughly right after planting.
 

Choosing the Best Arborvitae Varieties for Privacy Hedges

Not all arborvitae perform the same way when you plant arborvitae as privacy hedges.
 

1. Emerald Green Arborvitae

Emerald Green is a favorite for those who plant arborvitae as privacy hedges.
 
It grows slowly to about 10–15 feet tall and maintains a narrow, pyramidal shape.
 
Its dense foliage stays rich green year-round, making it ideal for a classic hedge.
 

2. Green Giant Arborvitae

If you want a faster-growing hedge, consider Green Giant when you plant arborvitae as privacy hedges.
 
This variety can add 3 to 4 feet per year and reach heights of 40–60 feet under ideal conditions.
 
It’s also highly resistant to pests and diseases, which means less maintenance over time.
 

3. American Arborvitae (Thuja occidentalis)

American arborvitae is another reliable choice when you plant arborvitae as privacy hedges.
 
It adapts well to various soil types and climates, especially colder zones.
 
Its soft, fan-like foliage creates a natural, informal hedge look.
 

Proper Spacing and Planting Depth for Arborvitae Hedges

Getting spacing and depth right is essential when you plant arborvitae as privacy hedges.
 

1. Measure for Full Mature Width

Always consider the mature spread of your chosen arborvitae before planting.
 
For Emerald Green, spacing of 3 feet apart works well to form a tight screen.
 
For Green Giant, give them 5 to 6 feet apart to avoid overcrowding as they mature.
 
Crowded plants compete for water and nutrients, which weakens the hedge over time.
 

2. Dig the Trench or Holes Correctly

For a formal hedge, digging a continuous trench can simplify the process when you plant arborvitae as privacy hedges.
 
If you prefer individual holes, space them evenly and keep the width at least twice the root ball.
 
The depth should match the height of the root ball exactly—never bury the trunk.
 

3. Water Immediately After Planting

After you plant arborvitae as privacy hedges, give each one a deep, slow soak.
 
Watering right away settles the soil around the roots and eliminates air gaps.
 
In the first few weeks, keep the soil consistently moist but not waterlogged.
 

Caring for Your Arborvitae Hedge After Planting

Once you plant arborvitae as privacy hedges, ongoing care helps them thrive.
 

1. Mulch to Retain Moisture

Apply a 2- to 3-inch layer of organic mulch around the base of each plant.
 
Mulch conserves moisture, moderates soil temperature, and suppresses weeds.
 
Keep the mulch a few inches away from the trunk to prevent rot.
 

2. Water Regularly During the First Year

Newly planted arborvitae need consistent irrigation, especially in dry weather.
 
Water deeply once or twice a week, depending on rainfall.
 
As the hedge establishes roots, you can gradually reduce watering frequency.
 

3. Prune Lightly for Shape

Arborvitae don’t require heavy pruning, but light shaping helps maintain a uniform hedge.
 
Prune in early spring before new growth appears.
 
Never cut into old, bare wood—arborvitae usually won’t regrow from that part.
 

4. Fertilize Sparingly

A balanced, slow-release fertilizer applied in spring supports healthy growth.
 
Avoid over-fertilizing, which can lead to weak, leggy branches.
 
A soil test can tell you exactly what nutrients your hedge needs.
 

So, How Do You Plant Arborvitae as Privacy Hedges?

You can plant arborvitae as privacy hedges by choosing the right variety, spacing them correctly, and providing consistent care.
 
The process isn’t complicated, but attention to detail makes the difference between a patchy screen and a lush, dense hedge.
 
By following the steps in this post on how to plant arborvitae as privacy hedges, you’ll create a beautiful, living fence that offers year-round privacy.
 
Happy planting.