The recommended spacing for planting arborvitae depends on the variety and the desired effect, such as privacy screening or windbreak. For Green Giant Arborvitae:
- For a privacy screen in a single row, space trees 5 to 8 feet apart for a dense screen.
- For a staggered double row privacy screen, space rows 8 to 10 feet apart with 5 to 8 feet between trees in each row.
- For a hedge or dense barrier, space trees 5 to 6 feet apart for a uniform appearance.
- For windbreaks, plant trees 8 to 12 feet apart to allow airflow while providing protection.
- Keep at least 6 to 8 feet from fences or structures to avoid interference with roots and branches.
- In smaller yards, planting closer (around 5 feet apart) can create a lush look but may require more pruning.
- In larger spaces, wider spacing (8 to 10 feet) allows for a more natural look and better airflow
For Emerald Green Arborvitae:
- Typically planted 3 to 4 feet apart.
- For faster privacy (within five years), spacing can be as close as 2 feet apart or less.
- Using a staggered double row (zig-zag pattern) with 3 to 4 feet spacing between trees in each row creates an instant dense privacy hedge.
- Emerald Green grows smaller (3 to 4 feet wide), so closer spacing is feasible compared to Green Giant.
- Conventional advice ranges from 18 inches to 4 feet apart depending on hedge height and starter plant size
Additional Tips:
- For quick privacy, planting 3 to 4 feet apart is common.
- Standard spacing for 6-7 foot tall arborvitaes is about 3 feet between trunks, with a minimum of 2 feet to avoid overcrowding.
- Staggered double rows help fill gaps and create denser screens.
- Consider the mature width of the trees (around 3-4 feet for Emerald Green, up to 15-18 feet for Green Giant) when planning spacing
In summary, plant Green Giant arborvitae about 5-8 feet apart for privacy screens and Emerald Green arborvitae about 3-4 feet apart, adjusting closer for faster privacy or staggered rows for denser coverage.
