Tree Spacing Calculator
Calculate tree count and spacing for an orchard, windbreak, or privacy screen from plot dimensions.
Returns row count and total trees.
Tree spacing determines long-term orchard productivity, airflow, sunlight penetration, and ease of harvest. Incorrect spacing causes competition for nutrients, disease spread, and structural crowding as trees mature.
Grid planting (rectangular):
Trees per Acre = 43,560 / (Row Spacing × In-Row Spacing)
Triangular/hexagonal planting (denser, 15% more trees):
Trees per Acre = 43,560 / (Row Spacing × In-Row Spacing × 0.866)
Worked example — Apple orchard:
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Standard spacing: 20 ft × 20 ft
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Trees per acre: 43,560 / (20 × 20) = 108.9 → 108 trees/acre
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High-density dwarf spacing: 10 ft × 3 ft
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Trees per acre: 43,560 / (10 × 3) = 1,452 trees/acre
Recommended spacing by rootstock/tree type:
| Tree Type | Spacing | Trees/Acre |
|---|---|---|
| Standard apple / pear | 25 × 25 ft | ~70 |
| Semi-dwarf apple | 15 × 12 ft | ~242 |
| Dwarf apple | 10 × 3 ft | ~1,452 |
| Standard cherry / walnut | 30 × 30 ft | ~48 |
| Peach / nectarine | 18 × 20 ft | ~121 |
| Citrus (orange, lemon) | 15 × 20 ft | ~145 |
Canopy clearance rules:
- Leave at least half the mature canopy diameter between trees for light penetration
- Allow 10–15 feet from fences and structures for root and canopy room
- Plant rows north to south to maximize sun exposure on all sides
Soil prep tip: Dig planting holes 2–3× the width of the root ball, backfill with native soil (not amended compost alone), and water deeply at planting.