How Far Apart to Plant Emerald Green Arborvitae
Learn how far apart to plant Emerald Green Arborvitae for perfect growth while maintaining proper airflow and maximizing their natural beauty. Discover expert tips for spacing and care to achieve the perfect hedge or screen.
Ever wondered how far apart to plant Emerald Green Arborvitae for that perfect privacy screen or gorgeous landscaping? You’re not alone! These evergreen favorites are a hit with gardeners because they’re easy to care for, grow quickly, and stay lush year-round. But here’s the deal—spacing matters! Proper planting distance is the key to creating a thriving hedge that’s neither overcrowded nor sparse. Too close, and you’ll risk poor airflow and weak growth. Too far, and you’ll lose that seamless green barrier you’re dreaming of. So, whether you’re planting for privacy, a windbreak, or decorative flair, getting the spacing just right is crucial. Let’s explore how to space these green beauties to ensure your hedge grows lush and healthy!
Why Choose Emerald Green Arborvitae?
Before we dive into the details of spacing, let’s take a moment to appreciate why Emerald Green Arborvitae is such a standout choice. First off, it’s a natural privacy shield—its dense, upright growth creates an effective barrier, keeping prying eyes at bay. What’s more, these evergreens are low-maintenance, so you won’t need to fuss with constant pruning or upkeep. Plus, they boast year-round charm, staying lush and vibrant in every season, unlike some plants that lose their appeal in winter. And here’s the cherry on top: they’re space-savers! Thanks to their slender profile, they’re ideal for smaller yards or areas where space is at a premium. All in all, they’re the perfect blend of beauty and practicality!
How Far Apart to Plant Emerald Green Arborvitae?
The golden question, right? Well, the answer depends on your goals. Are you aiming for a privacy hedge, windbreak, or decorative border? Let’s break it down:
For a Dense Privacy Hedge
When planting Emerald Green Arborvitae, spacing is crucial to ensure they grow into a lush, healthy hedge. For a dense privacy screen, space each tree 2-3 feet apart. This distance allows their branches to grow together seamlessly, forming a solid green wall that’s perfect for privacy. If you’re planting them near a property line, it’s wise to leave at least 3 feet of space from fences or structures. This prevents overcrowding and ensures there’s enough room for proper airflow and growth. By giving these evergreens just the right amount of space, you’ll create a beautiful, thriving hedge that adds charm and function to your yard without causing any issues as they mature.
For Individual Decorative Trees
For a more spaced-out and decorative look, plant Emerald Green Arborvitae 4-6 feet apart. This wider spacing allows each tree to grow freely, giving it enough room to spread its branches and show off its unique, natural shape. Unlike a dense hedge, this arrangement highlights the individual beauty of each tree while still providing greenery and structure to your yard. It’s an ideal choice if you’re going for a more open, elegant feel rather than a tightly packed privacy screen. Plus, with this setup, there’s plenty of room for airflow and healthy growth, ensuring your arborvitae thrive without competing for space. The result? A stunning, well-spaced landscape that blends beauty with functionality!
For a Windbreak or Noise Barrier
For maximum density and coverage, plant Emerald Green Arborvitae 3-4 feet apart in a staggered, double-row formation. This arrangement creates a lush, layered look that’s perfect for windbreaks, noise reduction, or added privacy. The staggered rows allow the trees to overlap slightly as they grow, filling in gaps and forming a thicker, more substantial barrier. This setup not only enhances the visual appeal but also boosts functionality, making it an excellent choice for creating a strong, natural shield in your yard. With this spacing, you’ll enjoy the benefits of a dense, healthy hedge that provides optimal coverage while maintaining good airflow and space for each tree to flourish. It’s a winning strategy for lush, reliable greenery!
Factors That Influence Spacing
Not all yards—or trees—are created equal. Here are a few things to consider before grabbing that shovel:
Mature Size of the Tree
Emerald Green Arborvitae is a slender yet tall evergreen, typically growing 12-15 feet in height and 3-4 feet in width. These dimensions make it a fantastic choice for tight spaces or as a privacy hedge, but they’re also important to consider when planning your planting. Without proper spacing, the trees can become overcrowded, which may lead to poor airflow, stunted growth, or even disease. By keeping their mature size in mind, you can ensure each tree has enough room to thrive without competing for space. Whether you’re planting a hedge, a windbreak, or using them as standalone accents, accounting for their full-grown size will set your landscaping up for long-term success and maintain a clean, polished look.
Growth Rate
Emerald Green Arborvitae has a moderate growth rate, typically adding 6-9 inches per year, so patience is key when planting them. While they won’t transform your yard overnight, this steady pace allows you to plan for gradual filling in over time. If you’re creating a privacy hedge or a windbreak, it’s important to remember that the initial gaps between trees will close as they grow and mature. This slower, manageable growth also means less frequent pruning and upkeep, making them a great low-maintenance option. By giving these evergreens the proper spacing and care, you’ll eventually enjoy a lush, green screen that’s worth the wait, offering both beauty and function for years to come.
Soil Type and Drainage
Emerald Green Arborvitae thrives in well-drained soil, making proper site selection essential for healthy growth. Poor drainage can lead to waterlogged roots, which can stunt growth or even cause the trees to decline over time. To avoid this, choose a location where excess water won’t pool after heavy rain. If your soil tends to hold moisture, consider improving drainage by adding compost or planting in raised beds. A well-draining spot ensures the roots get the oxygen they need while preventing issues like root rot. By paying attention to the soil conditions before planting, you’ll set your arborvitae up for success, allowing them to grow strong, healthy, and vibrant in your yard for years to come.
Climate and Sunlight
Emerald Green Arborvitae flourishes best in full sun to partial shade, making sunlight a critical factor for its growth. Ideally, these evergreens need at least 6 hours of sunlight daily to stay healthy and vibrant. Planting them in a shady spot can lead to slower growth, thinner foliage, and a less robust appearance. On the other hand, too much direct, intense sun without adequate water can stress the plants. To strike the perfect balance, choose a location with ample sunlight while ensuring they have access to moisture during hot, dry periods. By giving your arborvitae the right light conditions, you’ll enjoy lush, thriving greenery that enhances your landscape year-round. Light really is their secret to success!
Step-by-Step Guide to Planting Emerald Green Arborvitae
Follow these steps to set your arborvitae up for success:
Choose the Right Spot: Look for an area with good sunlight and well-drained soil.
Measure and Mark: Use a measuring tape to mark the exact spacing—2-3 feet for a hedge, 4-6 feet for standalone trees.
Dig the Holes: Make each hole twice as wide as the root ball but not deeper than the root system.
Amend the Soil: Mix in compost or organic matter to improve soil quality.
Plant the Trees: Place each arborvitae in its hole, ensuring the top of the root ball is level with the ground.
Fill and Firm: Fill the hole with soil, pressing gently to remove air pockets.
Water Generously: Give your trees a good soak right after planting.
Mulch Around the Base: Add a 2-3 inch layer of mulch to retain moisture and prevent weeds.
Pro Tips for Healthy Arborvitae Growth
Caring for Emerald Green Arborvitae is simple, but a few key steps will keep them thriving. Water consistently, especially during the first year—give them a deep soak weekly to help establish strong roots, then gradually taper off as they mature. Fertilize annually in early spring using a slow-release fertilizer to provide the nutrients they need for vibrant growth. To maintain their shape and encourage healthy foliage, prune lightly in late spring or early summer, avoiding aggressive trimming. Finally, be vigilant about pests like bagworms and spider mites—regularly inspect your trees and address any infestations promptly to prevent damage. With consistent care and attention, your arborvitae will remain healthy, lush, and the perfect addition to your landscape.
Common Mistakes
Avoiding common mistakes when planting Emerald Green Arborvitae is crucial for their long-term health and beauty. Overcrowding is a big no-no—planting too close together can restrict airflow, lead to poor growth, and increase the risk of disease. Instead, stick to the recommended spacing to allow each tree room to thrive. Ignoring sunlight needs is another misstep, as these evergreens require at least six hours of sunlight daily to maintain their lush appearance. Planting them in too much shade can result in thin, weak foliage. Finally, neglecting soil quality can be detrimental—poor soil leads to weak roots and stunted growth. Ensure your planting site has well-draining, nutrient-rich soil to support healthy, vigorous trees. Proper planning avoids these pitfalls!
Conclusion
Spacing is the golden rule when it comes to planting Emerald Green Arborvitae! Whether your goal is a dense privacy hedge, an effective windbreak, or a stunning decorative border, proper spacing is key to ensuring your trees grow strong and healthy. For a lush hedge, space them 2-3 feet apart, while 4-6 feet is ideal for standalone trees to showcase their shape. Getting the distance just right prevents overcrowding, promotes good airflow, and allows your arborvitae to thrive. With a bit of care and attention—like proper watering, sunlight, and soil conditions—your yard will transform into a green haven in no time. Plant them right, and these evergreens will be your landscape’s crowning glory for years to come!
Read next: Emerald Green Arborvitae Height Facts You Should Know
Frequently Asked Questions
1. How far apart should I plant Emerald Green Arborvitae for a privacy screen?
For a dense privacy hedge, space them 2-3 feet apart. This allows their branches to grow together seamlessly.
2. Can I plant Emerald Green Arborvitae closer than 2 feet?
Planting closer than 2 feet isn’t recommended as it can cause overcrowding, leading to poor growth and airflow issues.
3. How quickly do Emerald Green Arborvitae grow?
These trees grow about 6-9 inches per year, reaching their full height of 12-15 feet in roughly 10-12 years.
4. What happens if I plant them too far apart?
Planting too far apart (over 4-6 feet) can leave noticeable gaps, especially if you’re aiming for a privacy hedge.
5. Do I need to fertilize my arborvitae?
Yes! Fertilize annually in early spring with a slow-release, balanced fertilizer to keep them lush and healthy.
