The Perfect Spacing Guide for Planting Emerald Green Arborvitae

Emerald Green Arborvitae (Thuja occidentalis ‘Smaragd’) is a popular choice for creating beautiful, dense hedges that provide privacy, windbreaks, and visual appeal. 

Knowing the correct spacing for planting these evergreens is crucial to ensure healthy growth, optimal coverage, and ease of maintenance. 

In this blog, we’ll delve into how far apart to plant Emerald Green Arborvitae and the factors that influence this spacing.

Why Spacing Matters

Proper spacing is essential for several reasons:

Healthy Growth: Adequate spacing allows each tree to receive sufficient sunlight, water, and nutrients.Disease Prevention: Proper air circulation between trees reduces the risk of fungal diseases and pest infestations.Aesthetic Appeal: Correct spacing ensures a uniform and visually appealing hedge without overcrowding or gaps.

Optimal Spacing for Emerald Green Arborvitae

The recommended spacing for planting Emerald Green Arborvitae depends on the purpose of your planting and the desired effect:

For a Dense Privacy Hedge:

Ideal Spacing: 

Plant the trees 2 to 3 feet apart.

This close spacing ensures that the trees will grow together to form a dense, seamless hedge that effectively blocks sightlines and noise. Within a few years, the branches will interlock, creating a solid wall of greenery.

For a Windbreak or Screen:

Ideal Spacing: 

Plant the trees 3 to 4 feet apart.

This spacing provides enough room for the trees to develop a slightly broader base while still maintaining a dense cover. It offers excellent wind protection and screens out unsightly views.

For Specimen Plantings or Loose Borders:

Ideal Spacing: 

Plant the trees 4 to 6 feet apart.

If you’re planting Emerald Green Arborvitae as individual specimens or as part of a mixed border, giving them more space allows for their natural shape and structure to be showcased.

Factors Influencing Spacing Decisions

Several factors can influence how far apart you should plant your Emerald Green Arborvitae:

Soil Quality:

In rich, fertile soil, trees may grow more vigorously, and slightly wider spacing might be appropriate. In poorer soil conditions, closer spacing can help compensate for slower growth.

Climate and Weather:

In regions with harsh winters or strong winds, slightly closer spacing can provide extra support and protection as the trees grow.

Maintenance Considerations:

Closer spacing may require more frequent pruning to maintain the desired shape and prevent overcrowding. Wider spacing can reduce the need for maintenance but may take longer to achieve a dense hedge.

Mature Size:

While Emerald Green Arborvitae typically reaches a height of 10 to 15 feet and a width of 3 to 4 feet, consider the mature size when planning your spacing to avoid future overcrowding.

Planting Tips for Emerald Green Arborvitae

Prepare the Soil:

Ensure the planting site has well-draining soil. Amend the soil with compost or other organic matter to improve fertility and drainage if needed.

Digging the Holes:

Dig holes that are twice as wide and just as deep as the root ball of each tree. This allows the roots to spread out and establish more easily.

Watering:

Water the trees thoroughly after planting and maintain consistent moisture during the first growing season to help establish a strong root system.

Mulching:

Apply a layer of mulch around the base of each tree to help retain moisture, regulate soil temperature, and suppress weeds.

Pruning:

Regularly prune your Emerald Green Arborvitae to maintain the desired shape and encourage dense growth. This is especially important for closely spaced hedges.

Conclusion

Proper spacing is crucial for the health, aesthetics, and functionality of your Emerald Green Arborvitae hedge. 

By considering the purpose of your planting, the specific growing conditions, and following the recommended spacing guidelines, you can ensure a beautiful and effective hedge that will enhance your landscape for years to come. 

Whether you’re creating a privacy screen, windbreak, or simply adding structure to your garden, Emerald Green Arborvitae is an excellent choice that, with the right care and spacing, will provide lasting beauty and utility.