Where to Plant your Tree
Choosing the right place to plant could be more important than you think.
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Planting a single tree
Think about where you’re planting in relation to your house, your neighbours, and any other buildings.
Consider the ultimate size that the tree will grow to. Will it still fit the space you have in mind?
Some roots and branches may spread beyond the boundaries of your property and trees can cause structural damage. Be aware of places where limbs may fall or roots might grow.
We don't recommend growing trees in pots as they quickly outgrow them and will suffer stress if moved when they're bigger.
A tree may be small when you plant it, but think about how big it will grow over the years. Trees can cause structural damage so it’s vital to consider anything the roots might disturb or where limbs could fall. The canopy may eventually spread beyond the boundaries of your property, and roots could stretch even further, so be aware of building foundations and underground services like water pipes and broadband cables.
Planting Position
It’s important to think about the final size and spread of the trees and how you will use the site as the trees grow. Avoid planting under existing trees, as shade and lack of water will seriously restrict growth. Allow plenty of distance from existing hedges as they could swamp the growth of new trees, and you’ll need access to the hedge for future maintenance. Some species like poplar, alder and willow grow well in damp areas but no trees like permanently wet ground. If you are considering planting near a main river you will need to talk to the Environment Agency or equivalent, as tree planting may not be allowed.
Spacing
Spacing will depend on what you want from your trees. We recommend you plant in wavy lines and vary the spacing across your site. This will enable you to balance more densely planted sections with open areas for a natural look and feel. Plant small groups of the same species together – this will help reduce competition between different species as they grow. We recommend planting about two metres apart, but you can plant 1-5m apart depending on your space and plan. If you’re planting a single hedge, place trees 30cm apart. For a thick hedge, plant a double row of trees in a zig zag pattern. Space your rows 50cm apart, with 40-45cm between each tree.
When to plant your trees
We always recommend planting trees when they’re dormant and so less likely to get damaged. Tree planting season runs between November and March, although it can stretch a bit longer in Scotland and Northern Ireland. Of course each species of tree is different and some can be planted all year round