Spacing Italian Cypress for a Solid Privacy Hedge

How Close to Plant Italian Cypress for an Impenetrable Screen

A homeowner wants to know the spacing needed for Italian cypress to form a tight, opaque hedge.

Spacing Guidelines

• Mature width: 5–6 ft.
• Solid hedge spacing: 3 ft apart (centers). Branches will interlock within a few years.
• Screen spacing: 4–5 ft for a less dense but faster-establishing screen.

Planting Procedure

1. Hole: 2× root ball width, same depth.
2. Backfill: Good topsoil/potting mix.
3. Mulch: 2–3″ organic, not on trunk.
4. Water: 1 inch at planting, then weekly first year.

Maintenance Note

Italian cypress reaches 40+ ft unpruned. They tolerate shearing to maintain desired height—prune in late winter/early spring.

Key Takeaway

Plant 3 ft apart for a solid hedge. Use proper planting technique and plan for height management via annual pruning.