Can I Plant a Nanking Tree Hedge with 2 Foot Spacing?

If you're looking for a low-maintenance and attractive way to create a property border or privacy screen, planting a Nanking cherry tree (Prunus tomentosa) hedge may be a great option. These hardy and adaptable trees produce masses of bright pink flowers in spring, followed by edible fruit and colorful foliage in fall.

But what if you'd like to space your Nanking tree plants closer together than the often-recommended 4-6 foot intervals? Here's what you need to know.

The Basics of Nanking Tree Hedging

In general, Nanking cherry trees should be planted about 4-6 feet apart to form a continuous hedge. This spacing allows each tree enough space to spread out and grow into a full, healthy tree, while still providing plenty of privacy or boundary coverage. Nanking trees can reach a height of 10-15 feet over time, with a spread of 8-12 feet. Pruning can help control the size and shape of the hedge.

Planting Nanking Trees Closer Together

So, can you plant Nanking trees with only 2 feet of spacing between them? The answer is yes, but with a few important caveats.

First and foremost, Nanking cherry trees that are planted more closely together may struggle with issues such as disease, pests, and competition for nutrients and water. The trees may become crowded and tangled, which can lead to stunted growth, thin foliage, and a less attractive overall appearance.

Additionally, planting too many trees too close together can create an environment that's prone to trapping moisture, potentially leading to rot or fungal growth. This can be especially problematic if your region experiences wet or humid weather for extended periods.

Tips for Successful Nanking Tree Hedging

If you do decide to try planting Nanking cherry trees closer together than the usual recommended spacing, it's important to take some precautions to ensure the best results:

Choose high-quality trees: Make sure your Nanking cherry trees are healthy and disease-free from the start. You may need to look for special dwarf varieties that are bred to be smaller and more suited for tight hedging.

Provide proper care: Water your new saplings regularly, especially during dry spells, and fertilize them as needed. Prune them carefully to encourage strong growth and prevent overcrowding.

Avoid overplanting: If you do decide to space your trees closer together than the usual guidelines, consider using a smaller number of trees overall. For example, instead of planting a row of 10 trees with 2 feet of spacing, you might try planting a row of 5 trees with 4 feet of spacing. This can still provide effective hedging while reducing the risk of overcrowding.

Monitor for issues: Keep an eye on your trees over time and watch for signs of disease, pests, or other problems. Address any issues promptly to prevent them from spreading to neighboring trees.

In Conclusion

In general, Nanking cherry trees should be planted with at least 4-6 feet of spacing for optimal hedging results. However, if you're willing to take extra care and precautions, you may be able to plant your trees with closer spacing and still achieve success. By following these tips and best practices, you can create a beautiful, healthy, and functional Nanking tree hedge that adds value to your property for years to come.