Spruce & Pine Tree Spacing Guidelines

General Spacing Guidelines

• A minimum spacing of 6 to 12 feet is sufficient for most pine and spruce species. For many species, less than 6 feet between trees could be detrimental to their root development and sunlight exposure. There are a few exceptions, such as dwarf conifers, which can be set closer than 6 feet thanks to their compact size. Too much space can be detrimental for many pine and spruce trees. If spaced more than 12 feet apart, the trees cannot enjoy the benefits of weed control and space utilization that a closer spacing provides. Too much distance between trees may also cause the branches to grow too large.

Species Variation

• The ideal tree spacing for your landscape mostly depends on your intentions, as well as the tree species and cultivar. If you're growing the trees to full size, provide enough space for them to reach their height and width without obstructing each other. Bristlecone and pinyon pine trees can both reach 20 feet tall and 15 feet wide, while the Eastern white pine can grow 50 feet tall and 20 feet wide. Spruce trees are also quite variable in their eventual size. The Norway Spruce can grow 50 feet tall and 25 feet wide, while the Colorado Spruce reaches 60 feet tall and 25 feet wide. The Colorado Blue Spruce cultivar, Baby Blue Eyes, reaches just 15 feet tall. Conduct research about the specific tree you're planting to determine how large it will grow.

Christmas Tree Spacing

• Many spruce and pine trees are grown for Christmas trees and are harvested before they reach full size. This allows for more lenient spacing guidelines. Commercial Christmas tree growers usually aim for a tree spacing that maximizes production without forcing trees to compete with each other. Many such growers use a spacing of 6 feet by 5 feet or 6 feet by 6 feet for efficient use of their land. Smaller Christmas trees may be spaced 5 feet by 5 feet apart.

Soil Preferences

• When planting your pine and spruce trees, consider the specific soil needs of each species. White pine prefers well-drained soil but does not thrive in dry soil. Jack pine, on the other hand, grows well even in poor, sandy soil. Norway, white and black spruce varieties thrive in somewhat acidic, clay loam, but they don't like dry soil. Blue spruce grows well in all types of soils, particularly fine, well-drained substrates. Consider the specific soil and spacing needs of your species as you plan your landscape.