Not every tree fits into every garden, because the larger a tree gets, the more space it needs. This is why it is so important to keep to the planting distances recommended by the gardener: If the tree is too big for its location, there is a risk of clearing or complicated transplanting.
If trees are planted too close together, they hinder their growth
Why the right planting distance is so important
Anyone who buys young trees in a tree nursery or in a garden store often tends to place the still small tree in a location that is far too small - after all, it is difficult to imagine that this small specimen can one day grow into a large, mighty tree. On the plant label you will always find information on a recommended planting distance, so that the mature wood will have enough space later. Trees that are too close together tend to get sick quickly. In addition, they restrict the growth of other plants and, depending on the strength of their growth, can displace them themselves. Therefore, before planting, measure the correct distance from the nearest plant / structure to the main or central shoot of the new tree.
Plan the planting distance for hedges correctly
Hedges are generally planted more densely than individual trees. Here the plants should finally grow together and thus offer a natural privacy screen. Depending on the type and variety of plant, plan between two and five trees per meter. Measure the recommended planting distance from center shoot to center shoot. Incidentally, if the hedge is fenced in, you need fewer plants: Here you not only have to plan the distance between the plants, but also the distance between the fence and the plants. Otherwise the saplings could be crushed by the fence or the wall. "Free" hedges, on the other hand, are planted directly from centimeter 0, which is why you have to plan at least two more plants.
Don't forget: keep the limit distance!
In addition to the correct planting distance, which serves the well-being and growth behavior of the tree, you must also pay attention to the correct border distance and strictly adhere to it - after all, trees and other shrubs that are too close to the property line are one of the most common neighborhood conflicts in Germany. How large this distance must be is regulated by law - in every federal state as well as for many trees in detail. As a rule of thumb, trees and shrubs up to two meters high must be at least 50 centimeters from the property line, taller trees and shrubs at least one meter.
tips
Incidentally, it is not the height of the young tree that is used as the basis for calculating the correct limit distance, but the probable height of the later fully grown specimen.