What this calculator does
Proper tree spacing prevents overcrowding, root competition, and canopies fighting for light as trees mature. This calculator recommends a spacing distance and estimates how many trees fit in a given planting area.
How the math works
A widely used rule of thumb is to space trees a distance roughly equal to their expected mature canopy spread, so neighboring canopies just meet without excessive overlap. From that spacing, the calculator divides your area’s length and width by the spacing to estimate trees per row and number of rows in a square grid. For an offset (triangular) pattern, alternating rows are shifted by half the spacing and spaced closer together vertically (spacing times the square root of 3 over 2), which packs slightly more trees into the same area than a square grid.
Actual spacing needs vary by species, soil, climate, and purpose (windbreak, orchard, shade), so use this as a starting planning estimate and adjust for your specific tree variety and site conditions.