Orchard Tree Spacing Calculator
Plan the perfect layout for your fruit trees
Why Proper Tree Spacing Matters
Correct spacing between fruit trees is essential for:
- Maximizing sunlight exposure for better fruit production
- Ensuring adequate air circulation to prevent disease
- Allowing room for maintenance and harvesting activities
- Optimizing your available garden or orchard space
- Preventing competition for soil nutrients and water
Use our calculator below to determine the optimal spacing for your fruit trees based on tree type, size, and planting arrangement.
Calculate Your Tree Spacing
Recommended Spacing
Fill in the calculator form and click “Calculate Spacing” to see your recommendations
Tree Spacing Summary
Between Trees in Row
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Between Rows
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Orchard Capacity
Number of Trees
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Trees per Acre
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Orchard Layout Visualization
Each tree icon represents the position of a tree in your orchard.
Standard Tree Spacing Reference Guide
| Tree Type | Tree Size | In-Row Spacing | Between-Row Spacing | Trees per Acre (approx.) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Apple | Dwarf | 6-8 ft | 12-16 ft | 340-605 |
| Apple | Semi-Dwarf | 12-15 ft | 16-20 ft | 145-220 |
| Apple | Standard | 25-35 ft | 25-35 ft | 35-70 |
| Peach | Dwarf | 8-10 ft | 12-15 ft | 290-455 |
| Peach | Standard | 15-20 ft | 15-20 ft | 109-193 |
| Cherry | Dwarf | 8-12 ft | 14-18 ft | 202-388 |
| Cherry | Standard | 20-25 ft | 20-25 ft | 70-109 |
| Pear | Dwarf | 8-10 ft | 12-15 ft | 290-455 |
| Pear | Standard | 20 ft | 20 ft | 109 |
| Plum | Semi-Dwarf | 12-15 ft | 15-18 ft | 161-242 |
| Plum | Standard | 18-22 ft | 18-22 ft | 90-134 |
| Citrus | Dwarf | 6-8 ft | 10-12 ft | 450-726 |
| Citrus | Standard | 15-20 ft | 15-20 ft | 109-193 |
Note: These are general recommendations. Actual spacing may vary based on:
- Specific varieties and rootstocks
- Soil quality and fertility
- Local climate conditions
- Your pruning and management practices
High-Density Planting
High-density planting allows more trees in less space by maintaining smaller tree sizes through pruning. Trees can be spaced as close as 2-4 feet apart with proper management, producing smaller trees but earlier harvests.
Espalier Training
Espalier training involves growing trees flat against a wall or trellis. Trees can be spaced 4-5 feet apart, creating a beautiful living fence while producing fruit in a compact space perfect for small yards.
Mixed Planting Benefits
Consider planting different varieties of the same fruit type together to improve pollination. Many fruit trees require cross-pollination from another variety to produce fruit effectively.
Frequently Asked Questions
What happens if I plant fruit trees too close together?
When trees are planted too close, they compete for sunlight, nutrients, and water. This leads to reduced fruit production, increased disease risk due to poor air circulation, and difficulty in maintenance and harvesting. Trees may grow tall and spindly as they reach for light, creating an unbalanced orchard.
What is the ideal orientation for orchard rows?
The optimum orientation for orchard rows is typically north-south, which allows maximum sunlight exposure throughout the day as the sun moves from east to west. This orientation helps ensure that both sides of the tree receive adequate light for fruit development.
Can I plant different types of fruit trees close together?
Yes, you can plant different types of fruit trees near each other, but maintain proper spacing based on mature tree size. Consider growth rates, as faster-growing trees may overshadow slower-growing ones. Some combinations work better than others – for example, stone fruits (peaches, plums) often have similar requirements and can be grouped.
How do I calculate the number of trees per acre?
To calculate trees per acre, use the formula: (43,560 ÷ (in-row spacing × between-row spacing)). For example, trees planted 15 feet apart in rows that are 20 feet apart would be (43,560 ÷ (15 × 20)) = 145 trees per acre.