Emerald Green Arborvitae How Far Apart To Plant
For a dense, seamless privacy screen, plant Emerald Green Arborvitae 2 to 3 feet apart on center. If you prefer a more relaxed, spaced-out look, you can extend this distance to 4 feet, though it will take longer for the foliage to touch.
You want a lush, year-round green wall to block out the neighbors or soften a harsh fence line. You have likely heard that Thuja occidentalis ‘Smaragd’ is the gold standard for residential privacy, but you are worried about making a costly spacing mistake.
Getting the spacing right is the difference between a thriving, continuous hedge and a collection of lonely, struggling trees. If you have been searching for emerald green arborvitae how far apart to plant, you are in the right place to get the math exactly right for your landscape.
In this guide, we will break down the spacing requirements for these iconic conifers. You will learn how to measure, prepare your soil, and ensure your new hedge grows into the healthy, uniform barrier you envision.
Understanding Emerald Green Arborvitae How Far Apart to Plant
The most common mistake gardeners make is planting these trees too far apart in hopes of saving money. While these arborvitae grow slowly—usually about 6 to 12 inches per year—they eventually reach a mature width of 3 to 4 feet.
If you want an immediate privacy screen, 24 inches (2 feet) on center is the industry standard. This means measuring from the trunk of one tree to the trunk of the next.
At 2 feet apart, the branches will touch and interlock within a few seasons. This creates a solid wall that filters wind, reduces noise, and provides total visual seclusion for your backyard.
Site Preparation and Soil Health
Before you dig, assess your site’s soil quality. Arborvitae thrive in well-draining, slightly acidic soil. If your yard has heavy clay, the roots may struggle with water retention, leading to root rot.
Perform a simple percolation test by digging a hole and filling it with water. If it drains within a few hours, you are in good shape; if it sits for a day, you must amend the soil with organic matter like compost or pine bark fines.
Do not rely solely on chemical NPK fertilizers at planting time. Instead, focus on soil aeration and adding organic material to the bottom of the trench to encourage deep, resilient root growth.
The Step-by-Step Planting Process
Once you have decided on your spacing, mark the locations with landscaping flags or spray paint. Consistency is key to a professional-looking hedge.
- Dig each hole twice as wide as the root ball and exactly as deep.
- Gently remove the container, being careful not to pull on the trunk.
- Place the tree in the hole, ensuring the root flare (where the trunk widens at the base) is level with the soil surface.
- Backfill with native soil, firming it down gently with your foot to remove large air pockets.
After planting, apply a 2-inch layer of organic mulch around the base. Keep the mulch a few inches away from the trunk itself to prevent moisture buildup and potential fungal diseases.
Watering and Maintenance Essentials
Newly planted trees require consistent moisture to establish their root systems. During the first two growing seasons, provide deep, slow irrigation at least once a week, especially during the heat of summer.
Check for common pests like spider mites or bagworms regularly. You can spot these early by inspecting the foliage for webbing or small, cone-shaped nests hanging from the branches.
If you notice the inner needles turning brown, do not panic. It is often natural seasonal needle drop, which occurs in the fall. However, if the browning spreads to the outer tips, investigate for drought stress or environmental pathogens.
Tools for Success
You do not need an arsenal of heavy machinery to install a hedge. A sharp spade, a tape measure, and a level are your best friends. A soil probe can also help you determine moisture levels deep underground.
If you are planting a long row, use a taut string line to ensure your trees are perfectly aligned. There is nothing worse than finishing a project only to realize the hedge curves unexpectedly in the middle.
Managing Growth and Pruning
Emerald Green Arborvitae are naturally pyramidal, meaning they rarely require heavy pruning to keep their shape. Their slow growth habit makes them a low-maintenance choice for busy homeowners.
If you must prune, do so only in late spring or early summer. Never prune into the old, woody interior of the tree, as these branches will not produce new growth. Only trim the soft, green outer foliage to maintain your desired height or width.
Always sanitize your pruning shears with rubbing alcohol or a mild bleach solution between trees. This simple safety step prevents the spread of fungal pathogens from one plant to another.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I plant these trees closer than 2 feet?
While you can plant them closer for a very tight hedge, doing so may cause the trees to compete for nutrients and sunlight. This often leads to thinning foliage on the sides where they touch.
Do Emerald Green Arborvitae grow well in shade?
These trees prefer full sun. While they can tolerate partial shade, they will become spindly and lose their dense, columnar form if they do not receive at least 6 hours of direct light.
What is the best time of year to plant?
Spring and fall are the ideal windows. Avoid planting during the peak heat of mid-summer, as the stress of transplanting combined with high temperatures often leads to transplant shock.
Will deer eat my new hedge?
Unfortunately, deer are quite fond of arborvitae. If you live in an area with a high deer population, consider using a high-quality repellent spray or installing temporary fencing until the trees are well-established.
Conclusion
Achieving the perfect privacy hedge is a rewarding project that adds both value and tranquility to your home. By choosing the right spacing—typically 2 to 3 feet—and committing to proper site preparation, you set your trees up for a lifetime of success.
Remember to monitor your soil moisture, mulch effectively, and keep an eye out for pests. With a little patience and care, your Emerald Green Arborvitae will transform into a stunning, uniform green wall that stands the test of time.
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