Arborvitae for Privacy Screening
Arborvitae (Thuja) is the most popular privacy screening plant in North America. Their dense, columnar evergreen form creates a living fence that blocks sight lines, reduces wind, and adds year-round green structure. The two species most commonly used are Eastern arborvitae (Thuja occidentalis) and Western arborvitae/Green Giant (Thuja plicata x standishii).
Popular Varieties
| Variety | Height | Width | Growth Rate | Zones | Best Use |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Emerald Green | 10 to 15 ft | 3 to 4 ft | 6 to 9 in/yr | 2 to 7 | Narrow hedge, small yards |
| Green Giant | 40 to 60 ft | 12 to 18 ft | 3 to 5 ft/yr | 5 to 8 | Large privacy screen, fast |
| North Pole | 10 to 15 ft | 3 to 5 ft | 8 to 12 in/yr | 3 to 7 | Cold-hardy, narrow form |
| Techny | 10 to 15 ft | 6 to 8 ft | 6 to 12 in/yr | 2 to 8 | Wide hedge, very cold-hardy |
| American Pillar | 20 to 25 ft | 3 to 4 ft | 12 in/yr | 3 to 8 | Tall narrow screen, deer resistant |
Spacing for Privacy Screens
Space Emerald Green 3 to 4 feet apart for a solid screen within 3 to 5 years. Space Green Giant 5 to 6 feet apart (they grow much wider). The most common mistake is planting too close: a row of Emerald Green at 2-foot spacing looks great at year 3 but by year 10 they’re fighting for light and the interior turns brown. Give them room to breathe.
For an instant screen, alternate two staggered rows spaced 3 feet apart in a zigzag pattern. This fills in faster than a single row at the same spacing. Plant the back row first, then offset the front row between the gaps.
