Proper plant spacing is crucial for the health and productivity of plants. When plants are too close together, they compete for nutrients and water in the soil. Proper spacing ensures that each plant gets adequate access to these resources, leading to healthier growth.

Sufficient space between plants allows for good air circulation and exposure to sunlight. This helps reduce the risk of fungal diseases, mold, and other infections that thrive in moist, stagnant air conditions. Crowded plants may shade each other, limiting the amount of sunlight they receive, which can result in stunted growth and poor yields.

Proper spacing allows for plant roots to spread out and grow fully. Crowded plants may have restricted root growth, which limits their ability to absorb water and nutrients from the soil. Proper spacing reduces the likelihood of rapid pest infestation and disease transmission. When plants are close together, it is easier to for diseases to spread. Just like with people, when a sick person is in a small space with other people, it is more likely that the other people will catch it too.

Overall, proper plant spacing helps ensure optimal growth, plant health, and productivity, making it a key factor in successful gardening and landscaping. When using the plant calculator, be sure not to go too low with the distance between. As a general rule of thumb, we recommend keeping 12 inches between most plants.