Planting Plan Results
Smart recommendations
Planting layout preview
The diagram is illustrative. Confirm field measurements before planting.
Formula used
Square planting divides usable area by each shrub’s grid area. Rectangular planting uses separate plant and row distances. Staggered planting improves density by using triangular geometry.
How to use the calculator
- Select an area, spacing, or hedge calculation mode.
- Enter dimensions using one consistent length unit.
- Choose a planting pattern and shrub spacing method.
- Add exclusions, setbacks, allowances, and project costs.
- Calculate, review warnings, then export the planting plan.
Shrub-spacing guidelines
Tighter spacing creates faster visual coverage and stronger early screening. Wider spacing usually improves airflow and long-term plant structure. Species, pruning style, climate, and soil still affect results.
| Planting goal | Typical spacing approach | Planning note |
|---|---|---|
| Formal hedge | 70% to 90% of mature spread | Expect regular pruning and faster closure. |
| Informal hedge | 90% to 110% of mature spread | Allows more natural branching and shape. |
| Privacy screen | 75% to 100% of mature spread | Use staggered rows for greater density. |
| Foundation bed | 100% to 125% of mature spread | Keep adequate clearance from walls. |
| Mass planting | 70% to 100% of mature spread | Triangular spacing increases plants per area. |
Worked example
A rectangular bed measures thirty feet by twelve feet. Twenty square feet remain unavailable for planting. Three-foot staggered spacing produces a practical starting estimate.
| Input | Example value | Meaning |
|---|---|---|
| Gross bed area | 360 ft² | Length multiplied by width. |
| Excluded area | 20 ft² | Path or existing feature. |
| Spacing | 3 ft | Centre-to-centre plant distance. |
| Pattern | Triangular | Rows are staggered. |
| Allowance | 10% | Extra plants cover losses. |
Frequently asked questions
What does centre-to-centre spacing mean?
Measure from one shrub’s centre to the next centre. This method remains consistent across different container sizes. Mark every centre before digging any planting holes.
Should spacing equal the mature shrub width?
Equal spacing usually creates touching plants at mature size. Smaller spacing creates overlap and faster visual closure. Larger spacing preserves gaps and stronger individual forms.
When should triangular spacing be used?
Triangular spacing suits mass planting and dense screens. Staggered rows use area more efficiently than square grids. Access for maintenance may become slightly more difficult.
How many extra shrubs should I purchase?
Five to ten percent covers minor losses and replacements. Larger projects may justify a higher contingency allowance. Match replacements from the same nursery batch.
Can I calculate a curved planting border?
Yes, use the hedge mode with curved allowance. Measure the curve along its intended planting centreline. Add extra length for complex bends and corners.
How are paths and structures excluded?
Enter their combined area under excluded area. The calculator subtracts them before estimating plant quantity. Avoid counting the same exclusion more than once.
Does container size change mature spacing?
Container size mainly affects initial visual fullness. Mature spread should still guide long-term plant spacing. Larger containers usually increase purchase and labour costs.
How should double-row hedges be arranged?
Offset the second row by half the spacing. This staggered layout reduces direct gaps through screening. Maintain adequate row distance for plant development.
Why does the calculator round upward?
Partial shrubs cannot complete a planting layout. Rounding upward prevents accidental shortages during installation. Final field conditions may still change quantities.
Can the calculator estimate project cost?
Yes, add plant, delivery, material, and labour costs. The total uses the final purchase quantity. Taxes and local fees remain outside this estimate.
Is this result a planting guarantee?
No, it provides a planning estimate only. Plant health depends on species and site conditions. Confirm recommendations with qualified local horticultural guidance.
Important planting note
This calculator supports early planning and material estimates. It does not replace species-specific horticultural guidance. Verify utilities, setbacks, drainage, soil, and mature dimensions locally.