Proper Tree Spacing for Privacy Screen: Norway Spruce and Maples

A homeowner wants to alternate Norway spruce and maples for privacy/shade, asking about spacing. Site size unknown.

Critical Size Warning

• Norway Spruce (Picea abies): 60 ft tall × 25 ft wide — HUGE
• Maples (Red/Silver/Sugar): 40-60+ ft tall, 30-40+ ft wide
• Invasive roots: Norway and Silver maples damage lawns, septic systems

Recommended Spacing

• Norway Spruce: Minimum 15 ft apart for hedge
• Large Maples: Minimum 15 ft apart
• "Little" Maples (Amur, Tatarian, Japanese): 5-10 ft apart, brilliant fall color

Design Advice

Unless you have ½+ acre, these species will outgrow the space. Consider:

• Columnar evergreens (Thuja 'Emerald Green', Juniperus 'Skyrocket')
• Small ornamental trees (Amelanchier, Cornus)
• Mixed hedge with varied heights/textures

Planting too close guarantees future removal/pruning nightmares. Match species to actual space.