So, how far apart should you plant your Thuja Green Giant (Green Giant Arborvitae)?
The short answer is… it’s a bit of a long answer. It depends on why you’re planting them. Are you aiming for a fast privacy screen? Want a formal hedge? Or are you planting them for ornamental beauty with room to breathe?
Let’s walk through the key factors that affect spacing, and help you make the right call for your property in Chesterfield and the surrounding Virginia area.
What Makes Green Giant Arborvitae So Popular?
Also known as Thuja Green Giant, this evergreen has become a go-to choice for Virginia homeowners looking to add privacy and year-round greenery. Here’s why it’s so beloved:
- Grows up to 3 feet per year
- Naturally deer-resistant and low-maintenance
- Holds its vibrant green color through winter
- Thrives in Virginia’s heat, humidity, and fluctuating weather
But it’s also a big tree (at maturity, it can reach 50–60 feet tall and 12–20 feet wide). That kind of size demands proper spacing and planning.
Recommended Green Giant Arborvitae Spacing
For a Privacy Screen or Hedge
- Spacing: 5–8 feet apart
- Purpose: Quick coverage, dense green wall
- Pros: Fills in fast, gives you year-round privacy
- Cons: Tighter spacing may require more pruning and attention long-term
For Ornamental or Landscape Trees
- Spacing: 10–15 feet apart
- Purpose: Allow each tree to grow naturally without crowding
- Pros: Healthier air circulation, less pruning, showcases full tree shape
- Cons: Takes longer to visually “fill in”
Still unsure? If your main goal is privacy within 3–5 years, aim for 5–6 feet apart. Want a low-maintenance row that won’t require pruning later? Go with 10–12 feet and plan on a wait.
Common Planting Mistakes with Thuja Green Giant
You often see Thuja Green Giants planted way too close together (sometimes as little as 3–4 feet apart) in an effort to speed up coverage. This mistake can cause:
- Root competition and crowding
- Poor airflow and increased risk of disease
- Overlapping branches and irregular growth
- Future removal costs when trees start colliding with fences or each other
Spacing is one of the most important decisions you’ll make with this tree; don’t underestimate how large they’ll get, because they will surprise you!
Should I Plant in a Staggered Row?
Yes, staggered rows are a great option when you have more space and want faster visual coverage without overcrowding the trees.
For double or zig-zag rows:
- Space trees 6–8 feet apart within each row
- Offset rows by 4–6 feet
- Great for wider yards and more natural-looking screens
This strategy gives you the best of both worlds—density without stress.
Maintenance Matters: Don’t Let Them Take Over
Thuja Green Giants are low-maintenance, but fast growth can catch you off guard. A well-planted row can turn into an overgrown hedge before you know it.
Has your fast-growing privacy tree started to invade your neighbor’s space? We can help. Our professional tree pruning team can restore structure, protect fences, and keep your Green Giants healthy and contained.
Need a Second Opinion? Call in the Pros
Planting Green Giant Arborvitae isn’t rocket science, but it’s not one-size-fits-all either. Soil type, sun exposure, and spacing all play a role in how your trees perform.
If you’re not sure what spacing is best for your yard, or if your current row needs some attention, reach out to the Nunnally’s team today.Want more helpful tips like this one? Browse our blog for more resources.
