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Planting arborvitae trees for privacy is a straightforward process that, when done correctly, creates a dense, living screen.
To plant arborvitae trees for privacy, you need to choose the right variety, space them properly, and follow a few key steps during installation.
If you’ve been wondering how to plant arborvitae trees for privacy effectively, the good news is that these evergreens are forgiving and grow fast.
This guide will walk you through how to plant arborvitae trees for privacy so you can enjoy a secluded yard as quickly as possible.
We’ll cover everything from site prep to long-term care so your privacy screen thrives.
How to Plant Arborvitae Trees for Privacy: The Right Way
Before you dig, understand that how to plant arborvitae trees for privacy starts with smart planning.
When you learn how to plant arborvitae trees for privacy, you realize that variety selection, site prep, and timing all matter.
Choose the Right Arborvitae Variety
Not all arborvitae are created equal when you want to plant arborvitae trees for privacy.
‘Green Giant’ and ‘Emerald Green’ are two popular choices that grow tall and stay narrow.
For the best privacy screen, pick a variety that reaches at least 10–15 feet high and stays full from base to tip.
Pick a Location with Full Sun to Partial Shade
To plant arborvitae trees for privacy successfully, they need at least 4–6 hours of direct sunlight daily.
Too much shade will cause the lower branches to thin out, leaving gaps in your screen.
Measure the area along your property line and leave enough room for mature spread.
Prepare the Soil Before You Plant
Good drainage is essential when you plant arborvitae trees for privacy.
Loosen the soil to a depth of about 12–18 inches and mix in some compost.
If your soil is heavy clay, consider raising the planting bed to avoid root rot.
Step-by-Step: How to Plant Arborvitae Trees for Privacy
Now that the prep is done, let’s get into the actual steps for how to plant arborvitae trees for privacy.
Follow these directions closely to give your trees the best start.
Dig the Hole Twice as Wide as the Root Ball
When you plant arborvitae trees for privacy, the hole should be no deeper than the container or root ball.
But make it two to three times wider so the roots can spread easily.
Set the tree so the top of the root ball sits level with or slightly above the surrounding soil.
Set the Tree and Backfill Gently
Remove the tree from the pot or burlap and place it in the center of the hole.
Backfill with the original soil you dug out — no need for heavy amendments.
Tamp the soil down lightly to remove air pockets, but don’t pack it too hard.
Water Deeply Right After Planting
Watering is critical when you plant arborvitae trees for privacy.
Give each tree a slow, deep soak so the water reaches the entire root zone.
A good rule is to use about 5–10 gallons per tree at planting time.
Spacing and Mulching for Arborvitae Privacy
Spacing is one of the most common questions about how to plant arborvitae trees for privacy.
Get it right, and your screen will fill in without fighting for resources.
Space Trees Based on Mature Width
For ‘Green Giant’ arborvitae, space them 5–6 feet apart.
For ‘Emerald Green’, 3–4 feet apart works well when you want to plant arborvitae trees for privacy sooner.
Tighter spacing gives you a faster screen, but looser spacing helps each tree grow fuller.
Apply a 2- to 3-Inch Layer of Mulch
Mulch keeps the soil moist and cool, which reduces stress after you plant arborvitae trees for privacy.
Spread organic mulch around the base, but keep it a few inches away from the trunk.
Never pile mulch against the stem — that invites rot and pests.
Ongoing Care After You Plant Arborvitae Trees for Privacy
Your work doesn’t stop once the trees are in the ground.
Consistent aftercare ensures the privacy screen fills in quickly.
Water Regularly for the First Year
Newly planted arborvitae need about 1 inch of water per week from rain or irrigation.
Check the soil a few inches down — if it’s dry, it’s time to water.
During hot or dry spells, increase watering frequency to support root establishment.
Fertilize Lightly in Early Spring
A balanced slow-release fertilizer helps when you’ve just planted arborvitae trees for privacy.
Avoid high-nitrogen formulas that force weak, leafy growth.
One feeding in early spring is usually enough for the first couple of years.
So, How to Plant Arborvitae Trees for Privacy?
How to plant arborvitae trees for privacy involves choosing the right variety, spacing them correctly, digging a wide but shallow hole, and providing consistent water and mulch.
Planting arborvitae trees for privacy is not complicated, but attention to detail makes all the difference.
Now you have a clear roadmap on how to plant arborvitae trees for privacy — follow these steps and your living fence will thrive for years.