How Much Space to Leave Between Each Thuja Plant

When it comes to planting Thuja plants, also known as arborvitae, one of the important factors to consider is the spacing between each plant. Giving adequate space between each Thuja plant is essential for their healthy growth and overall appearance. In this article, we will discuss how much space to leave between each Thuja plant and why it is important.

Importance of Proper Spacing

Proper spacing between Thuja plants is crucial for several reasons. Firstly, it allows each plant to receive an adequate amount of sunlight, water, and nutrients. When plants are overcrowded, they compete for these resources, leading to stunted growth and poor health.

Secondly, proper spacing ensures good air circulation between plants. This helps in reducing the risk of fungal diseases and improves overall plant health. Good air circulation also prevents the buildup of moisture around the plants, which can attract pests and cause root rot.

Lastly, giving enough space between each Thuja plant allows them to maintain their natural shape and form. Overcrowding can result in distorted growth patterns and a less appealing appearance.

Recommended Spacing Guidelines

The recommended spacing between Thuja plants can vary depending on the specific variety and the desired outcome. Here are some general guidelines to follow:

For Privacy Screens or Hedges

If you are planting Thuja plants to create a privacy screen or hedge, closer spacing is generally recommended. This will help achieve a fuller and denser appearance faster. A spacing of 2 to 3 feet (60-90 cm) between each plant is usually sufficient for most varieties.

However, it is important to consider the ultimate height and width of the specific variety you are planting. Some varieties can grow up to 30 feet tall and 10 feet wide, while others may stay smaller. Make sure to research the mature size of your chosen variety before deciding on the spacing.

For Individual Specimens

If you are planting Thuja plants as individual specimens, with the intention of allowing them to grow to their full size and natural shape, wider spacing is recommended. This will give each plant ample space to spread out and develop its characteristic form.

A spacing of 5 to 8 feet (150-240 cm) between each plant is generally suitable for most Thuja varieties when planted individually. Again, it is essential to consider the mature size of the specific variety and adjust the spacing accordingly.

Factors to Consider

While the recommended spacing guidelines provide a good starting point, there are some additional factors to consider when determining the spacing between Thuja plants.

Soil Conditions

The quality and fertility of the soil can influence plant growth and spacing requirements. If you have nutrient-rich, well-draining soil, Thuja plants may require less space between them compared to plants grown in poor soil conditions. It is advisable to amend the soil with organic matter and conduct a soil test before planting to ensure optimal conditions for your Thuja plants.

Sun Exposure

Thuja plants thrive in full sun to partial shade conditions. The amount of sunlight your planting area receives will affect the growth and density of the plants. If your planting area is partially shaded, you may need to increase the spacing slightly to allow for better light penetration and airflow.

Growth Rate

Thuja plants have varying growth rates depending on the variety. Some varieties grow faster than others, filling out more quickly. If you are using multiple varieties in a hedge or privacy screen, it is important to consider their growth rates when determining spacing. Faster-growing varieties may require slightly wider spacing compared to slower-growing ones.

Maintenance Plan

Lastly, your maintenance plan for the Thuja plants should also influence the spacing decision. If you plan on regularly pruning and maintaining the plants’ size and shape, you can afford to space them slightly closer together. However, if you prefer minimal pruning and want the plants to grow naturally, wider spacing is advisable.

Conclusion

Giving adequate space between each Thuja plant is essential for their healthy growth, appearance, and overall performance. The recommended spacing guidelines vary depending on the planting purpose and the specific variety. Considering factors such as soil conditions, sun exposure, growth rate, and maintenance plan will help you determine the ideal spacing between your Thuja plants. By providing them with the right amount of space, you can ensure a beautiful, healthy, and long-lasting landscape feature.