How Far Apart to Plant Evergreen Trees

Evergreen trees are a popular choice among homeowners for their year-round beauty and low maintenance. However, when it comes to planting these trees, many people are not sure about how far apart they should be planted. The spacing between evergreen trees is crucial to their growth and health, and it is important to consider several factors before deciding on the best distance for planting. In this article, we will discuss the factors that affect how far apart to plant evergreen trees and provide some guidelines for doing so.

Factors to Consider

Before planting evergreen trees, there are several factors that you should consider that will affect how far apart they should be planted. These include:

Species of Tree: The species of tree you are planting will determine how much space it needs to grow to its full size.

Location: The location of the planting site will affect the amount of sunlight, soil moisture, and nutrients the trees will receive.

Purpose: The purpose of planting the trees will determine the spacing needed. For example, if you are planting a windbreak, you will need to plant the trees closer together to create a dense barrier.

Growth Rate: The growth rate of the trees will determine how quickly they will fill in the space and require trimming.

Guidelines for Planting Evergreen Trees

Based on the factors above, here are some general guidelines for planting evergreen trees:

Small Evergreens: Small evergreens that grow to a height of 6 to 10 feet should be planted 3 to 6 feet apart.

Medium Evergreens: Medium evergreens that grow to a height of 10 to 20 feet should be planted 8 to 12 feet apart.

Large Evergreens: Large evergreens that grow to a height of 20 to 40 feet should be planted 15 to 25 feet apart.

Very Large Evergreens: Very large evergreens that grow to a height of 40 feet or more should be planted 30 to 40 feet apart.

These guidelines are just a starting point, and you should always check the recommendations for the specific species of tree you are planting. You should also consider the location and purpose of planting the trees and make adjustments as necessary.

Tips for Planting Evergreen Trees

Now that you know how far apart to plant evergreen trees, here are some tips to ensure their successful growth:

Planting Depth: The planting hole should be as deep as the root ball and twice as wide.

Soil: Evergreens prefer well-drained soil with a pH of 5.0 to 6.5.

Watering: Water newly planted trees thoroughly and keep the soil moist for the first year.

Mulching: Apply 2 to 4 inches of organic mulch around the base of the tree to retain moisture and suppress weeds.

Pruning: Prune evergreens in the late winter or early spring to remove any dead or damaged branches and maintain their shape.

Conclusion

Planting evergreen trees can add beauty and function to your landscape. By considering the species, location, purpose, and growth rate of the trees, you can determine how far apart to plant them for their successful growth. Following these guidelines, along with proper planting and maintenance, will help ensure that your evergreen trees thrive for years to come.