Hedge calculator
Enter the length of your hedge and how far apart to plant. You'll get the number of shrubs, including a staggered double row for a faster, denser screen.
- Plants per row
- –
- Distance from each end (ft)
- –
The first and last plants sit half a spacing in from each end.
Typical hedge spacing
| Shrub | Spacing in a hedge |
|---|---|
| Boxwood | 1.5–2 ft |
| Privet | 1–2 ft |
| Emerald Green arborvitae | 2–3 ft |
| Green Giant arborvitae | 5–6 ft |
| Cherry laurel | 3–5 ft |
For a hedge, plants go closer than their full mature width, so their branches knit into one wall. The nursery tag or grower usually lists the right spacing for screening.
How the math works
The hedge length divided by the spacing gives the number of plants, with the end plants set half a spacing in from each end. A 60 foot hedge at 3 foot spacing takes 20 plants. A staggered double row doubles that to 40 and fills in much faster.
Common questions
Single row or double row?
A single row is cheaper and fine if you can wait a few seasons. A staggered double row, where the second row fills the gaps of the first, gives privacy sooner and makes a thicker screen, but needs a wider planting strip.
How far from a fence should a hedge be planted?
At least half the plant's mature width, so you can reach both sides to trim and the shrubs don't push against the fence.
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