Hedge plant calculator
Work out how many hedging plants you need for a single-row hedge, from its length and your chosen plant spacing.
Result
Hedge plants needed
How to use this tool
- Measure the total length of the hedge line.
- Set the spacing between plants — check the specific species' recommended spacing.
- Read the number of plants needed.
Assumptions
- Assumes a single-row hedge in a straight line — a double-staggered row for extra density needs roughly double the plants.
- The default 40cm spacing is an editable example, not a recommendation for every species or hedge style. Check guidance for the selected plant and intended hedge.
Technical details: what the fields mean
- Hedge length
hedgeLength - Total length of the hedge row.
- Plant spacing
spacing - Distance between plants along this single row. Choose spacing for the species, plant size, desired hedge and supplier guidance; presets are examples, not universal recommendations.
Methodology
Plants required = floor(hedge length ÷ spacing) + 1 — one plant at each end plus evenly spaced plants along the row.
Worked example
10m straight single-row hedge, 0.4m entered spacing
Inputs: Hedge length: 10 m, Plant spacing: 0.4 m
Result: 26 plants using the calculator's end-position convention. Select spacing for the species and layout; this is not a universal rate.
Practical guidance
- Closer spacing gives a denser hedge sooner but costs more upfront — check the specific species' guidance for the best balance.
- A double-staggered row (two offset rows) fills in faster and denser than a single row, at roughly double the plant cost.
Common mistakes
- Spacing plants too widely for a fast, dense hedge, leaving visible gaps for several years.
- Not accounting for the hedge's eventual mature width when planting close to a boundary or path.
FAQs
How many hedging plants do I need for a 10m single row?
At an entered spacing of 40cm, this model gives 26 plants. Use species- and product-specific guidance to choose spacing; double rows and curved lines are not modelled.
What spacing should I use for hedging plants?
Spacing depends on species, plant size, desired density and whether the hedge is planted in one or more rows. Follow guidance for the selected plants; presets are only examples.
Last reviewed: 2026-10-11
Assumes a straight single-row hedge — a curved line or double-staggered row will need a different actual count.
This tool provides an indicative estimate, based on the assumptions stated above.
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