How far apart should hedge plants be?

Depends on species: Privet 30 cm, Beech/Yew 45 cm, Laurel 60 cm, Leylandii 75 cm, Box 20 cm. Closer spacing gives faster screening.

Should I plant a single or double row?

Double rows give a thicker hedge faster. Stagger plants between rows with 45 cm between rows. Use for exposed or security hedges.

What is the best time to plant a hedge?

Bare-root hedging: November to March. Container-grown: any time, but autumn is best. Avoid planting in frozen or waterlogged soil.

How tall will my hedge grow per year?

Privet: 30-40 cm/year. Leylandii: 60-90 cm/year. Yew: 20-30 cm/year. Beech: 30-40 cm/year.

How long before my hedge is fully grown?

Fast hedges (privet, leylandii): 3-5 years. Medium (beech, hornbeam): 5-8 years. Slow (yew, box): 8-15 years. Feed and water well in the first few years.

GardenCalcs

Hedge Spacing Calculator — How Many Hedge Plants

Calculate how many hedge plants you need for a given length.

Hedge Length

Hedge Species

Row Configuration

How We Calculate This

Formula: Plants = (Hedge Length ÷ Spacing) + 1 (for end plant).

For double rows, multiply by 2 with plants staggered between rows.

Spacing recommendations are based on UK nursery guidance for each species.

Frequently Asked Questions

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Last updated: February 2026

All calculations are estimates based on standard gardening guidelines. Results may vary with soil conditions, climate, and plant varieties.