Arborvitae Privacy Screen on Chain Link Fence: Species and Spacing

Growth Through Fence

Yes, arborvitae will grow through chain link if planted close. Plan for maintenance access.

Recommended: Emerald Green Arborvitae

• Height: 8-12 ft (manageable)
• Width: 3-4 ft (plant 3-4 ft apart for hedge)
• Plant 3-4 ft from fence
• Occasional trimming of fence-protruding branches
• No pruning needed for density

Green Giant Considerations

• Grows 3-5 ft/year → 40-60 ft tall
• Width 12-20 ft - too wide for narrow space
• Planting closer reduces width slightly but not enough
• Overwhelms 12-ft space between houses

Italian Cypress

• 40-60 ft tall, 3-6 ft wide
• Dwarf varieties slower but still tall
• Not ideal for hedge density

Best Advice

Visit local nursery for region-specific recommendations. Emerald Green is reliable for narrow spaces with fence integration.