How Many Cherry Laurel Plants Per Metre? The Complete UK Spacing Guide
Correct spacing is one of the most important decisions when planting cherry laurel (Prunus laurocerasus). Too close, and plants compete for nutrients; too spaced, and gaps take years to close.
This guide covers exactly how many cherry laurel plants you need per metre, based on height, density preference and planting method — plus charts, spacing diagrams, and professional landscaper tips.
Standard Cherry Laurel Spacing (Quick Answer)
Most common spacing:
2 plants per metre
Faster coverage (maximum density):
3 plants per metre
Budget spacing (slower coverage):
1.5 plants per metre
Instant hedging units:
1 unit per metre
Spacing by Plant Height
Different sizes require different spacing due to canopy spread.
30–60cm plants (3–4 per metre)
For slow/medium budgets; it takes 3–4 years to fill.
60–90cm plants (2–3 per metre)
Most popular for homeowners.
100–125cm plants (2 per metre)
Faster results; good density.
150–180cm plants (1.5–2 per metre)
Suitable for immediate screening.
Instant hedging troughs (1 per metre)
Fully formed hedge on day 1.
Why Correct Spacing Matters
1. Density
Closer spacing = faster privacy.
2. Health
Proper spacing prevents:
- Mildew
- Rot
- Yellowing leaves
- Airflow problems
3. Cost efficiency
Too many plants = higher costs; too few = slow results.
Professional Spacing Recommendations
For fast results (preferred for most gardens):
2 plants per metre.
For top-tier density:
3 plants per metre. Used in front gardens, visible boundaries, and premium landscapes.
For large rural boundaries:
1.5 plants per metre. Cheapest option but slowest.
Spacing for Root Ball Laurel
Root ball plants are larger and wider.
Recommended spacing:
- 1.5 plants per metre
- If height is 1.5m or more: 1 plant per metre
Spacing for Pot-Grown Laurel
Pot-grown plants are more compact.
Recommended spacing:
- 2–3 per metre
Planting in a Single Row vs Double Row
Single Row (most common)
- Easy to maintain
- Needs fewer plants
- Fits small gardens
Double Row (for maximum privacy)
Staggered formation:
X X X
X X X
Double-row spacing:
- 40–50cm between rows
- 2–3 per metre per row
This creates an incredibly thick hedge.
How Spacing Affects Growth Speed
Wide spacing
- Plants grow outward
- Fill gaps slowly
Close spacing
- Faster coverage
- Thicker foliage
- Better privacy sooner
For most homeowners wanting fast privacy: Choose 2–3 plants per metre.
How to Measure Spacing Properly
- Lay out a rope or string
- Mark every 33–50cm (depending on density)
- Adjust for curves
- Dig holes aligned to the marks
- Measure from stem base, not leaves
Common Spacing Mistakes
❌ Planting too deep
Causes root suffocation.
❌ Overcrowding large root balls
Heavy competition for nutrients.
❌ Inconsistent spacing
Creates patches and uneven hedges.
❌ Planting flush to fences
Always leave a minimum of 45–60cm gap.