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 calculator
- 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 suits most common formal hedging species — check the specific plant's recommended spacing for best results.
Technical details: what the fields mean
- Hedge length
hedgeLength - Total length of the hedge row.
- Plant spacing
spacing - Distance between plants along the row — typically 30–50cm for a dense formal hedge, wider for a looser informal one.
Methodology
Plants required = floor(hedge length ÷ spacing) + 1 — one plant at each end plus evenly spaced plants along the row.
Worked example
10m hedge, 0.4m spacing
Inputs: hedgeLength=10, spacing=0.4
Result: 26 plants required
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 plants do I need for a 10m hedge?
At 40cm spacing, 26 plants — enter your own hedge length and spacing above for an exact figure.
What spacing should I use for a hedge?
30–50cm is typical for a dense formal hedge; check the specific species' own recommended spacing.