How far apart should fruit trees be?

Dwarf rootstock: 2-3 m. Semi-dwarf: 3-5 m. Standard: 5-8 m. Spacing depends on rootstock more than variety.

What rootstock affects tree spacing?

Apple trees on M27 (very dwarf) need 1.5 m. M9: 2.5 m. M26: 3-4 m. MM106: 4-5 m. Check rootstock when buying.

How close to a boundary can I plant a tree?

Plant at least half the mature canopy spread from boundaries. Large trees should be at least 5 m from buildings.

What is the best layout for an orchard?

Grid pattern is traditional and easy to maintain. Staggered rows give better light distribution. East-west rows maximise sun exposure.

How close can I plant a tree to my house?

As a general rule, plant trees at least half their mature height away from buildings. Large trees like oaks should be 15m+ away. Check root spread for clay soils.

GardenCalcs

Tree Spacing Calculator — Orchard & Garden Tree Layout

Work out proper tree spacing for orchards, avenues, and gardens.

Area Length

Longest side of the plantable plot, in metres — measured along the rows.

Area Width

Shorter side of the plot, in metres — measured across the rows.

Tree TypePick by rootstock vigour, not variety — this sets the spacing applied (dwarf 2.5m up to standard/avenue 8m).

How We Calculate This

Rows = ⌊Area Width ÷ Spacing⌋ · Trees per row = ⌊Area Length ÷ Spacing⌋ · Total trees = Rows × Trees per row.

This square-grid model centres each tree in its own cell, leaving a half-spacing gap to every boundary — so canopies stay off your neighbours' side. A staggered (triangular) layout fits about 15% more trees in the same plot but is harder to mow between.

Spacing recommendations: Dwarf fruit 2.5m, Semi-dwarf 4m, Standard 6m, Small ornamental 4m, Medium 6m, Large 10m.

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.