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Planting Density

Planting density refers to the number of plants required per hedging length to provide you with the desired effect.

On every product page, in the table, you’ll find the column 'No. Per Metre', this is a size specific indication of how many plants you will require per metre of hedge. For example, if you wish to buy Privet hedging in 4L pots at 80/100cm to make a 5m long hedge, we would recommend 3-4 plants per metre i.e 15-20 plants.

If you’d like to consider your planting density in more detail then here are some of the things we’d suggest you consider;

Patience – Our average density recommendations are based on the plants touching one another after the first full growing season, if you’d like a denser hedge more quickly than closer spacing’s and therefore more plants are required.

Ground level – If it’s vital that you have cover right down to ground level then smaller plants at a higher density are recommended. Don’t forget you can plant tall hedging interspersed with smaller hedging to provide better cover at ground level.

Final height – If, in your minds eye you see a towering hedge, then bigger gaps between plants will be required to provide each plant with enough nutrients and root space to achieve great heights.

Budget - Choose a lower density if your budget is tight.

Double staggered or single row?

Another consideration when planning a hedge is whether to plant in a single or double staggered row, so what's the difference?

A single row does exactly what it says on the tin, one singular row of hedging. These are often used for pot grown plants and root ball plants, though a double row could be achieved with smaller pots or root ball sizes.

Double staggered rows make a zigzag shape and we recommend their use with all bare roots and cell grown plants plus smaller pots and root balls.

Single Row

  • Ideal for pots and rootballs
  • Great for planting on a budget

Double Staggered Row

  • Perfect for bare roots and cell grown, plus smaller pots and rootballs
  • Creates a thicker, denser hedge offering better protection from exposure
  • Hedging is more impenetrable