Arborvitae Hedges: How to Design a Better One

Do you need privacy in your yard? Is your first thought to plant a row of arborvitae along the property line? Before you dig that first hole and head to the garden center, take a moment to unleash your creativity and think about how you can do it better.

Why Arborvitae Is So Popular

Arborvitae, particularly varieties like ‘Emerald Green’ and ‘Green Giant,’ has become the go-to choice for privacy hedges in many American gardens, especially in USDA zones 4 to 6. Its popularity is easy to understand: arborvitae is evergreen, fast-growing, and provides an “instant” green wall that blocks unwanted views year-round.

But with great popularity comes overuse. It’s not uncommon to see entire neighborhoods lined with towering walls of arborvitae, each hedge identical to the next. The question is, does this approach really enhance your garden and the neighborhood, or is there a better way to incorporate this hardy plant into your landscape?

Rethinking the Arborvitae Hedge

There’s no denying the practical benefits of arborvitae, but it’s worth considering whether a straight, unbroken line of these trees is the best use of your garden space. An arborvitae hedge doesn’t have to be a towering, impenetrable wall standing in lonely isolation at the edge of your yard. Even if your goal is privacy, there are more creative ways to achieve it.

1. Think Beyond the Straight Line: Consider a more naturalistic layout instead of planting arborvitae in a rigid, straight row. You can stagger the trees or plant them in a gentle curve, which not only looks more organic but also helps break up the monotony.

2. Integrate with Other Plants: Arborvitae can be a wonderful backdrop for other plantings. You can also alternate it with different plants like deciduous shrubs, small trees, or even structures like trellises to create privacy and add texture, color, and seasonal interest. This approach softens the hedge’s appearance and creates a more dynamic, layered landscape.

3. Shape and Style: Arborvitae is highly tolerant of pruning, so don’t be afraid to shape your hedge. Whether you trim the tops to create a formal look or sculpt the hedge into gentle waves or curves, there are plenty of ways to give your arborvitae a unique character. Experiment with varying the height of the hedge to create visual interest or blend it into other parts of your garden.

Creating a Lasting and Beautiful Arborvitae Hedge

One of the main attractions of arborvitae is the idea of an "instant fence." This is particularly appealing when space is limited. However, "instant" doesn’t mean "maintenance-free." Arborvitae requires regular care to stay healthy and attractive.

Maintenance Matters: Arborvitae hedges need regular watering to establish a strong root system, especially in their first few years. If your area has ground frost, you must also protect the plants from direct sunlight during the late winter—early spring before the soil has thawed. They also benefit from annual pruning to maintain their shape and prevent them from becoming too wide for the space. Additionally, it’s essential to keep an eye out for pests, which can cause significant damage if left unchecked.

Plan for the Long Term: When choosing arborvitae, consider the size of the variety you’re planting. Some varieties can grow very large, which may become an issue in small yards. By selecting the suitable variety, planting it in the right location, and pruning, you can ensure your hedge remains a positive feature in your landscape for years to come.

Get Creative with Your Hedge Design

Before planting that row of arborvitae, ask yourself:

• Why am I planting this hedge?
• What is the ideal height?
• How does it blend with the rest of the garden, and how can I make it look more interesting?

Instead of simply "installing" a hedge along the boundary without considering other options, think about whether the hedge needs to extend the entire length of the property line. Could you break it up with different plant textures, forms, or colors to add variety? By asking these questions, you can create a more beautiful, functional, and enjoyable outdoor space.

Ready to Design Your Dream Privacy Screen?

Arborvitae can be a fantastic addition to your garden when used thoughtfully. If you want to create a stunning and functional outdoor space, I'm here to help! I offer personalized garden coaching services online to help you see your garden with fresh and professional eyes to get new ideas, insight, and solutions.

Schedule your consultation today, and let's make your landscape truly special! Click HERE!