Plant Spacing Calculator

Overview

Plans a rectangular bed or hedge with the chosen on-center spacing and layout pattern, then estimates plant count and top-dress mulch.

Assumptions

• Preset spacing is a planning input, not a mature-size guarantee.
• Triangular layouts use offset rows; hedge mode is one row.

Worked example

For a 30-ft hedge at 24-in spacing, the linear calculation is ceil(30 ÷ 2) + 1 = 16 plants.

Common mistakes

• Measuring pot width instead of intended on-center spacing.
• Ignoring mature spread, access, and irrigation coverage.

Limitations

Irregular beds, staggered boundaries, and plant mortality are not modeled exactly.

Safety and local requirements

Call before digging. Check local invasive-plant guidance and keep sight lines clear near driveways.

Sources

• University of Minnesota Extension — planting and growing guides