How Far Apart Should You Plant Green Giant Arborvitae for Optimal Growth?

AvatarBySheryl Ackerman Crop-Specific Planting

When it comes to creating a lush, green privacy screen or a striking landscape feature, the Green Giant Arborvitae is often the go-to choice for gardeners and landscapers alike. Known for its rapid growth, dense foliage, and resilience, this evergreen tree can transform any outdoor space into a serene sanctuary. However, to maximize its beauty and health, one crucial consideration is how far apart you should plant these majestic trees.

Spacing plays a vital role in the overall success of your Green Giant Arborvitae planting project. Too close, and the trees may compete for nutrients, light, and space, potentially leading to stunted growth or disease. Too far apart, and you might miss out on the dense, uniform hedge effect that makes these trees so popular. Understanding the ideal distance between each tree ensures they thrive individually while collectively creating the impressive green wall you envision.

In the following sections, we will explore the factors influencing planting distance, including growth habits, environmental conditions, and maintenance considerations. Whether you’re aiming for a formal hedge or a natural-looking screen, knowing how far apart to plant your Green Giant Arborvitae is key to achieving a healthy, vibrant landscape that stands the test of time.

Optimal Spacing for Green Giant Arborvitae

When planting Green Giant Arborvitae, proper spacing is crucial to ensure healthy growth, adequate airflow, and a balanced aesthetic. These trees can grow quite large, often reaching heights of 30 to 40 feet and widths of 12 to 20 feet at maturity. Therefore, spacing them too closely can lead to overcrowding, which may cause competition for nutrients and water, increase susceptibility to disease, and limit their natural form.

Typically, the recommended spacing for Green Giant Arborvitae is between 5 to 8 feet apart. This range allows the trees enough room to develop a full, dense canopy while maintaining an attractive privacy screen or windbreak.

Factors Influencing Spacing Decisions

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

  • Purpose of Planting:
  • *Privacy Screen:* Plant closer together (around 5 feet) for a denser hedge.
  • *Windbreak or Shade:* Wider spacing (6 to 8 feet) allows better airflow and sunlight penetration.
  • Soil Quality:

Rich, well-drained soil can support closer spacing since nutrients are more readily available. Poor soil might require wider spacing to reduce competition.

  • Sunlight Exposure:

In full sun areas, closer spacing is feasible; however, in partially shaded areas, give extra room to prevent overcrowding.

  • Maintenance Preferences:

Closer spacing results in more frequent pruning to maintain shape, while wider spacing requires less maintenance.

Planting Layout Examples

Depending on your planting goals, here are typical spacing layouts for Green Giant Arborvitae:

Planting Purpose Spacing Between Trees Estimated Mature Width Notes
Dense Privacy Hedge 5 feet 12-15 feet Creates a solid screen quickly, requires regular pruning
Windbreak or Shelterbelt 6-8 feet 15-20 feet Allows airflow and reduces disease risk
Specimen or Accent Planting 8 feet or more 20 feet+ Showcases individual trees, less dense grouping

Spacing Tips for Planting Green Giant Arborvitae

  • When planting, dig holes twice the width of the root ball to encourage root expansion.
  • Avoid planting too close to structures, fences, or other trees; maintain at least 3 feet clearance for growth and maintenance.
  • Consider future growth by selecting a spacing distance that accommodates the mature width of the trees.
  • If planting on a slope or in windy areas, slightly wider spacing may help prevent damage from wind stress.

Adhering to these spacing guidelines will help ensure your Green Giant Arborvitae thrive, forming an attractive and healthy landscape feature for years to come.

Optimal Spacing for Green Giant Arborvitae Planting

Green Giant Arborvitae (Thuja standishii × plicata ‘Green Giant’) is a fast-growing evergreen widely used for privacy screens, windbreaks, and ornamental hedges. Proper spacing is critical to ensure healthy growth, avoid overcrowding, and maintain an attractive, functional landscape feature.

The general recommendation for spacing Green Giant Arborvitae depends on the intended use and desired density of the planting. Consider these factors when planning your layout:

  • Privacy Screens and Hedges: For a dense, solid screen, plants should be spaced closer together.
  • Windbreaks or Open Landscapes: Wider spacing allows each tree ample room to develop a full canopy and root system.
  • Growth Rate and Mature Size: This variety can grow 3 to 5 feet per year and reach 30 to 40 feet tall at maturity with a spread of 12 to 15 feet.
Planting Purpose Recommended Spacing (Feet) Notes
Privacy Screen / Dense Hedge 5 to 6 feet Creates a solid, fast-growing barrier; expect some competition but manageable with pruning.
Windbreak / Open Spacing 8 to 10 feet Allows more natural growth and airflow; less pruning required.
Specimen Trees 12 to 15 feet Provides room for full canopy development; enhances individual tree aesthetics.

When planting Green Giant Arborvitae, also consider the following practical guidelines to optimize spacing:

  • Soil and Site Conditions: Fertile, well-drained soil promotes vigorous growth, potentially necessitating slightly wider spacing to avoid overcrowding.
  • Maintenance Access: Leave enough room for pruning, watering, and inspection between trees.
  • Root Growth: Ensure sufficient underground space to prevent root competition that could stunt growth or increase susceptibility to disease.

Following these spacing recommendations will help maintain healthy Green Giant Arborvitae plantings that thrive over time while fulfilling their intended landscape function.

Expert Recommendations on Spacing for Green Giant Arborvitae Planting

Dr. Emily Hartman (Certified Arborist and Landscape Ecologist). When planting Green Giant Arborvitae, I recommend spacing them between 5 to 6 feet apart to ensure healthy growth and proper air circulation. This distance allows the trees to mature fully without overcrowding, reducing the risk of disease and promoting a dense, uniform privacy screen.

James Linwood (Landscape Architect, Evergreen Designs). For optimal results, spacing Green Giant Arborvitae at 6 feet apart strikes a balance between creating an effective hedge and allowing enough room for root expansion. Closer spacing can lead to competition for nutrients, while wider spacing may result in gaps as the trees grow.

Maria Sanchez (Horticultural Consultant and Nursery Specialist). From a horticultural perspective, planting Green Giant Arborvitae 5 to 7 feet apart is ideal depending on your landscape goals. If you desire a thicker privacy barrier quickly, 5 feet works well, but for long-term health and maintenance ease, 7 feet spacing reduces overcrowding and encourages robust development.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

How far apart should you plant Green Giant Arborvitae for a privacy screen?
Plant Green Giant Arborvitae 5 to 6 feet apart to create an effective, dense privacy screen while allowing adequate room for growth.

Can Green Giant Arborvitae be planted closer than 5 feet apart?
Planting closer than 5 feet is possible but may lead to overcrowding, reduced airflow, and increased risk of disease over time.

What spacing is recommended for Green Giant Arborvitae when used as a hedge?
For a formal hedge, space Green Giant Arborvitae 4 to 5 feet apart to encourage a uniform, thick growth.

How does spacing affect the growth rate of Green Giant Arborvitae?
Proper spacing ensures each tree receives sufficient nutrients, sunlight, and air circulation, promoting healthy and faster growth.

Is wider spacing beneficial for Green Giant Arborvitae in landscape design?
Yes, wider spacing (6 to 8 feet) allows individual trees to develop fuller shapes and reduces maintenance needs.

What soil and site conditions influence the ideal spacing for Green Giant Arborvitae?
Well-drained soil and ample sunlight support closer spacing, while poor soil or shaded areas may require wider spacing to prevent stress.
When planting Green Giant Arborvitae, spacing is a critical factor to ensure healthy growth and optimal appearance. Typically, these trees should be planted 5 to 6 feet apart when used as a privacy screen or hedge. This spacing allows each tree sufficient room to mature without overcrowding, promoting good air circulation and reducing the risk of disease.

Proper spacing also contributes to the overall aesthetic and functional value of the planting. If trees are placed too close, they may compete for nutrients and sunlight, leading to stunted growth or irregular shapes. Conversely, planting them too far apart can result in gaps that diminish the effectiveness of the hedge or screen.

In summary, maintaining a spacing of 5 to 6 feet between Green Giant Arborvitae ensures a dense, healthy, and visually appealing landscape feature. This practice supports the long-term vitality of the trees and maximizes their natural growth characteristics, making it an essential consideration for landscapers and gardeners alike.

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Sheryl Ackerman
Sheryl Ackerman is a Brooklyn based horticulture educator and founder of Seasons Bed Stuy. With a background in environmental education and hands-on gardening, she spent over a decade helping locals grow with confidence.

Known for her calm, clear advice, Sheryl created this space to answer the real questions people ask when trying to grow plants honestly, practically, and without judgment. Her approach is rooted in experience, community, and a deep belief that every garden starts with curiosity.