Hedge Planting Calculator

For a single row hedge, plant 3 plants per metre (33cm apart) for most species — beech, privet, yew, hornbeam, hawthorn and mixed native. Larger evergreens like cherry laurel and leylandii go in at about 60cm, around 2 per metre. A staggered double row is simply two single rows, so the density doubles: 6 per metre for the standard species (the stock-proof figure required for the gov.uk Countryside Stewardship BN11 hedge grant — 33cm in-row, 40cm between rows) and 4 per metre for laurel and leylandii.

Double-staggered planting means two rows of plants in a zigzag pattern. The rows are typically 300-400mm apart, with plants offset so each plant in one row sits between two plants in the other. This creates a much thicker, denser hedge more quickly and is recommended for boundary hedges and screening.

Yes, mycorrhizal fungi can improve hedge establishment. These beneficial fungi form a symbiotic relationship with plant roots, extending the root network and improving water and nutrient uptake. Apply the granules in direct contact with the roots at planting time. Application rates vary by brand and plant size, so always follow your product's instructions — this calculator uses a rough rule of thumb of about 1 sachet per 5 bare-root plants for ordering purposes only.

The best time to plant bare-root hedging is November to March when plants are dormant. Avoid planting in frozen or waterlogged ground. Container-grown plants can be planted year-round but will need regular watering in summer. Autumn planting (November-December) gives roots time to establish before spring growth.

Dig the trench at least 300mm deep and 400mm wide for most hedging species. For larger rootballs (laurel, yew), go to 400mm deep and 500mm wide. Loosen the bottom of the trench to improve drainage. Mix excavated soil with compost (50/50) for backfilling. The root flare should sit at ground level, not buried.