Planting Emerald Green Arborvitae Spacing – For A Dense Privacy Screen
Creating a living fence is one of the most rewarding projects for any homesteader or outdoor enthusiast. We all agree that a wall of vibrant greenery is far more inviting than a cold, wooden fence or a chain-link barrier.
I promise that by following these precise steps, you will avoid the common mistakes of overcrowding or leaving unsightly gaps. Getting your planting emerald green arborvitae spacing right ensures your trees thrive for decades while providing the security you need.
In this guide, we will cover exact measurements, soil preparation, and the specific gear you need to build a professional-grade windbreak. We will look at how to transform your property into a secluded, self-sufficient sanctuary using the Thuja occidentalis ‘Smaragd’.
Table of Contents
Understanding the Emerald Green Arborvitae
Before we dig into the dirt, we need to understand what makes the Emerald Green (Smaragd) unique. Unlike its cousin, the Green Giant, the Emerald Green is a compact, slow-growing evergreen that maintains a narrow, pyramidal shape.
These trees typically reach heights of 12 to 15 feet but only spread about 3 to 4 feet wide. This makes them the “gold standard” for smaller suburban lots or defining boundaries on a homestead without taking up too much space.
They are prized for their shimmering emerald foliage that stays green even through the harshest winters. For the outdoor enthusiast, they serve as an excellent windbreak for RV pads or outdoor kitchens, protecting your gear from the elements.
The Critical Rules for Planting Emerald Green Arborvitae Spacing
The most frequent question I get from new gardeners is how far apart to place these evergreens. The answer depends entirely on your primary goal: do you want a solid wall or a line of individual trees?
If you are looking for a seamless, solid privacy hedge, you should space your trees 2 to 3 feet apart. This measurement should be taken from the center of one trunk to the center of the next trunk in the row.
When you use this planting emerald green arborvitae spacing, the branches will eventually interlock, creating a dense barrier. This prevents wind, noise, and prying eyes from penetrating your campsite or backyard living area.
Spacing for Individual Specimen Growth
Perhaps you don’t want a solid wall but rather a decorative row of distinct, cone-shaped trees. In this scenario, you should increase your spacing to 4 or 5 feet apart from center to center.
Wider spacing allows for better airflow between the branches, which is vital for preventing fungal diseases. It also ensures that the lower branches receive enough sunlight so they don’t turn brown and die off over time.
For those living off-grid, wider spacing can also make it easier to navigate between trees for maintenance. It allows you to move a lawnmower or a small tractor through the line without damaging the delicate foliage.
Calculating the Number of Trees Needed
To calculate how many trees you need, first measure the total length of the area you want to cover. If you have a 30-foot run and want a solid hedge, divide 30 by 2.5 (the average spacing for a screen).
In this case, you would need 12 trees to complete the project properly. Always buy one or two extra trees as backups just in case one fails to take root during the first season.
It is much easier to plant a replacement tree that is the same age and size as the rest of the row. This keeps your privacy screen looking uniform and professional rather than having one small “runt” in the middle.
Preparing Your Site for Success
Proper planting emerald green arborvitae spacing won’t matter if the soil isn’t prepared to support life. These trees prefer well-drained soil and at least six hours of direct sunlight every day.
Start by clearing all weeds and grass in a three-foot wide strip where the trees will live. Grass is a fierce competitor for nutrients and water, and it can easily choke out a young arborvitae sapling.
If you are working on a remote homestead, check the drainage by digging a hole and filling it with water. If the water is still there after 12 hours, you have heavy clay soil that needs amendment or a different location.
The Importance of Soil pH
Arborvitae thrive in slightly acidic to neutral soil, typically with a pH between 6.0 and 8.0. You can use a simple soil test kit from any garden center to check your levels before you plant.
If your soil is too alkaline, you can add elemental sulfur to bring the pH down. For soil that is too acidic, a bit of garden lime can help balance the environment for your new evergreens.
Preparing the soil a few weeks before planting gives the amendments time to integrate. This creates a hospitable environment that encourages the roots to spread quickly once they hit the ground.
Step-by-Step Guide to Planting Your Hedge
Once you have finalized your planting emerald green arborvitae spacing, it is time to get your hands dirty. Having the right tools, like a sharp spade and a sturdy wheelbarrow, will make the job much easier.
- Dig the Hole: Dig a hole that is twice as wide as the root ball but no deeper. Planting too deep is the number one cause of tree death.
- Position the Tree: Place the tree in the hole, ensuring the top of the root ball is slightly above the soil line. This prevents “root rot” and trunk decay.
- Backfill with Care: Use the native soil you removed to fill the hole back in, tamping it down gently with your hands to remove air pockets.
- Water Immediately: Give each tree a deep soaking right after planting to settle the soil around the roots.
I recommend using a transplant fertilizer or a mycorrhizal fungal inoculant during this stage. These beneficial fungi attach to the roots and help the tree absorb water and nutrients more efficiently in the wild.
If you are planting a long row, use a string line tied between two stakes to keep your row perfectly straight. A crooked hedge is very noticeable once the trees grow taller and can ruin the aesthetic of your property.
Essential Gear for the Modern Homesteader
To do this job right, you need more than just a shovel. Investing in quality equipment will save you time and physical strain, especially if you are planting dozens of trees at once.
A drip irrigation system is perhaps the most important piece of gear for arborvitae success. These trees are thirsty, and a drip line ensures water goes directly to the roots without wasting a drop.
You should also have a high-quality mulch on hand, such as shredded cedar or pine bark. A 3-inch layer of mulch helps retain moisture and keeps the root zone cool during the blistering summer months.
For those in windy areas or high-altitude camps, consider using tree stakes and soft ties. This prevents the young trees from being whipped around by the wind, which can break the new, fragile “feeder roots.”
Maximizing Growth and Health
Even with perfect planting emerald green arborvitae spacing, your trees need ongoing care to reach their full potential. The first two years are the “establishment phase,” where the tree focuses on root growth.
During this time, you must ensure they receive about one inch of water per week. If you are living off-grid, you may need to haul water or set up a rainwater collection system to keep them hydrated.
Avoid heavy pruning during the first few years. Let the tree reach its natural height before you start shaping the top or the sides to maintain the desired thickness of your living wall.
Seasonal Maintenance Tips
In the spring, apply a slow-release evergreen fertilizer (look for a 10-10-10 or 12-4-8 NPK ratio). This provides the nitrogen needed for that vibrant green color we all love.
In the fall, give your trees a final deep watering before the ground freezes. Evergreens continue to lose moisture through their needles all winter long, and they cannot replace it if the ground is frozen solid.
If you live in an area with heavy snowfall, gently brush the snow off the branches with a broom. Heavy, wet snow can splay the branches outward, permanently damaging the tight, pyramidal shape of the Emerald Green.
Common Challenges and How to Solve Them
Even the most experienced outdoor enthusiast will run into issues occasionally. One common problem is “browning” of the interior needles, which can be alarming to see.
Don’t panic—this is often a natural process called seasonal needle drop. The tree sheds its oldest, innermost needles every autumn to make room for new growth in the spring.
However, if the tips of the branches are turning brown, it could be a sign of underwatering or “winter burn.” Using a burlap wrap in the winter can protect your hedge from drying winds and salt spray if you live near a road.
Dealing with Pests and Wildlife
Bagworms and spider mites are the two most common pests that target arborvitae. Keep a close eye on your foliage; if you see small “bags” hanging from the branches, pick them off immediately.
Deer are also a major threat to a new hedge. They find the soft needles of the Emerald Green to be a delicious winter snack, often eating the bottom four feet of the tree.
If you have high deer pressure, consider using a deer repellent spray or installing a temporary fence until the trees are tall enough to survive some browsing. Protecting your investment is key to long-term success.
Using Arborvitae for Off-Grid and RV Living
For the overlander or RV owner, planting emerald green arborvitae spacing can be used to create a permanent “campsite” on private land. These trees act as a natural muffler for generator noise.
They also provide a massive benefit by acting as a windbreak. A row of well-spaced arborvitae can reduce the wind speed on the leeward side by up to 50%, making your outdoor living space much more comfortable.
When planning an off-grid site, position your arborvitae on the north or west side of your trailer. This blocks the coldest winter winds while still allowing the southern sun to warm your space during the day.
Frequently Asked Questions About Planting Emerald Green Arborvitae Spacing
Can I plant Emerald Green arborvitae in the shade?
While they can survive in partial shade, they will grow much slower and the foliage will be less dense. For a solid privacy screen, full sun is highly recommended to ensure the branches fill in the gaps quickly.
How fast do these trees grow once planted?
Emerald Greens are moderate growers, typically adding 8 to 12 inches of height per year. With proper watering and fertilization, you can expect a 4-foot sapling to become a 10-foot tall screen in about six to seven years.
Is 2 feet too close for planting emerald green arborvitae spacing?
Two feet is the absolute minimum distance for these trees. While it provides a very fast screen, it can lead to root competition and reduced airflow as the trees mature. If you have the patience, 2.5 to 3 feet is generally the “sweet spot” for long-term health.
Should I prune the tops to make them grow wider?
No, you should avoid “topping” the trees until they reach your desired height. Cutting the central leader (the main vertical trunk) will stop the upward growth and can cause the tree to lose its neat, pyramidal shape.
Building Your Natural Fortress
Getting your planting emerald green arborvitae spacing right is the foundation of a beautiful and functional outdoor space. Whether you are shielding a suburban patio or protecting a remote homestead, these trees offer unmatched beauty and utility.
Remember to prioritize soil health, consistent watering, and proper measurements from the very first day. Gardening, like any outdoor skill, requires patience and a bit of “dirt under the fingernails,” but the results are well worth the effort.
Take the time to plan your layout, gather your gear, and plant with care. Soon, you will have a lush, green sanctuary that provides privacy, peace, and protection for years to come. Stay safe and stay comfortable out there in the great outdoors!
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