Apple Tree Spacing Calculator

Calculate optimal apple tree spacing for maximum yield, efficient orchard management, and sustainable fruit production.

🌳 Optimal Spacing • 🍎 Maximum Yield • 🚜 Equipment Access

Orchard Configuration

Orchard Dimensions

Total area: 0.8 hectares

Apple Variety

Rootstock Type

Environmental Conditions

Planting Pattern

Management System

Custom Spacing (Optional)

Orchard Layout Preview

Apple Orchard Planning Guide

Why Proper Spacing Matters

Optimal tree spacing is crucial for apple orchard success. Proper spacing ensures adequate sunlight penetration, air circulation, and root development while maximizing yield per hectare. It also facilitates efficient mechanization, pest management, and harvesting operations.

Rootstock Selection Guide

🌱 Dwarf Rootstock

M9, M26, G41

2-3m height, early production, high density planting, requires support, easier harvesting.

🌿 Semi-Dwarf

M7, MM106, G935

3-4m height, good balance of size and yield, moderate density, some support needed.

🌳 Standard

MM111, M25, Seedling

4-6m height, long-lived, drought tolerant, lower density, traditional orchards.

Planting Patterns

Square Pattern

  • • Equal spacing in all directions
  • • Easy mechanization
  • • Good for uniform varieties
  • • Standard commercial approach

Rectangular Pattern

  • • Different row and tree spacing
  • • Optimizes equipment access
  • • Better light penetration
  • • Flexible for terrain

Factors Affecting Spacing

Tree Factors

  • Variety vigor and growth habit
  • Rootstock size control
  • Expected mature canopy size
  • Pruning and training system

Environmental Factors

  • Soil fertility and depth
  • Climate and growing season
  • Water availability
  • Slope and terrain

Modern Orchard Systems

High Density

1,000-2,500 trees/ha
Dwarf rootstock, intensive management

Super High Density

2,500-5,000 trees/ha
Wall systems, precise management

Traditional

200-400 trees/ha
Standard rootstock, extensive system

Pollination Considerations

  • Most apple varieties require cross-pollination
  • Plant 2-3 compatible varieties for optimal fruit set
  • Pollinizer trees should bloom at the same time
  • Maximum distance between varieties: 30-40 meters
  • Consider crabapple pollinizers for extended bloom
  • Ensure adequate bee populations during bloom

How to Use This Calculator

  1. Enter your orchard dimensions and select units
  2. Choose your apple variety and rootstock type
  3. Select environmental conditions and management preferences
  4. Choose a planting pattern or use custom spacing
  5. Click "Calculate Optimal Spacing" for detailed results
  6. Review spacing recommendations and yield projections
  7. Use the economic analysis for investment planning
  8. Follow management recommendations for best results