Calculator inputs
Enter heights, choose a tier style, and optionally list plants you already have.
Example data table
| Scenario | Focal | Base | Tiers | Method | Mid target | Low target |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Raised pot display | 75 | 20 | 3 | Classic | 66.50 | 42.75 |
| Ground bed border | 60 | 0 | 4 | Classic | 45.00 | 33.00 |
| Patio grouping | 30 | 10 | 2 | Golden | 24.72 | — |
Formula used
The calculator first adjusts your focal plant height for expected growth, pruning, and light-driven vigor. Then it builds tier targets as a fraction of the total focal height from ground level.
- AdjustedFocalPlant = FocalHeight × (1 + Growth%/100) × PruneFactor × LightFactor
- FocalTotal = BaseHeight + AdjustedFocalPlant
- TierTotal(i) = FocalTotal × Ratio(i)
- TierPlant(i) = max(0, TierTotal(i) − BaseHeight)
How to use this calculator
- Measure your focal plant height without the pot or stand.
- Enter your base height if the plant sits elevated.
- Set growth allowance for the season you expect.
- Choose pruning and light factors that match your care plan.
- Select tier count and a ratio method for the look.
- Optionally list available plant heights to match quickly.
- Press Calculate to see targets above the form.
- Download CSV or PDF for shopping and planting notes.
Why candlestick tiering improves visual balance
Candlestick arrangements rely on predictable height steps so the eye moves from a focal plant to supporting layers. This calculator converts a chosen focal height into proportional targets, keeping mid and edge plants from competing. In container groups, balanced tiers reduce “top-heavy” silhouettes and improve walkway sightlines.
Inputs that change real-world height outcomes
Growth allowance adds seasonal stretch, while pruning factor models how often you trim. Light factor captures vigor differences between shade and sun exposures. A 10% growth allowance can add 7.5 cm to a 75 cm focal, before pruning and light adjustments. Using a prune factor of 0.90 typically keeps tiers tighter for formal displays.
How ratios translate into target heights
The calculator computes total focal height from ground level by adding base height to adjusted plant height. Each tier is then a ratio of that total. For classic three-tier layouts, 1.00, 0.70, and 0.45 create a clear step that reads well at two to four meters. Golden ratio cascades produce a softer drop that suits mixed cottage borders.
Matching targets to plants you already have
If you enter available plant heights, the tool finds the nearest match for each tier and reports the difference. Small differences are easy to correct by pot risers, selective pruning, or swapping varieties. Many designers accept a ±5% variance, especially for edge tiers where spillers and groundcovers hide gaps.
Practical guidelines for planting and maintenance
Use the targets as starting points, then account for watering, settling, and post-plant trimming. Keep mid-tier plants slightly below target in high-nitrogen feeding programs, because rapid growth can erase steps. Recheck heights every two weeks during peak growth, and prune in small sessions to preserve structure. Exported CSV and PDF notes help repeat successful pairings across beds. In windy sites, anchor taller focal containers and use heavier media; stability protects stems and keeps the tier profile consistent throughout the season.
FAQs
1) What does “base height” mean here?
Base height is the elevation added by pots, stands, raised beds, or hardscape edges. The calculator adds it to the adjusted plant height so every tier is referenced from ground level.
2) When should I increase the growth allowance?
Increase it during fast growth periods, warm weather, or when using high feeding. For slow seasons or heavily trimmed displays, lower the allowance to keep tiers tighter.
3) How do I choose pruning and light factors?
Use lower pruning factors when you trim frequently or hard. Use higher light factors for strong sun and vigorous cultivars, and lower values for shade or limited nutrition.
4) What tier method is best for formal layouts?
Classic stepped ratios usually read clearest in formal beds because the height drops are intentional and repeatable. Golden ratio cascades look softer and more naturalistic.
5) Why are my nearest available matches far from targets?
Your available list may lack intermediate heights. Adjust with risers, choose smaller pots, prune selectively, or swap one tier’s plant to reduce visible gaps and restore the stepped profile.
6) How accurate are the targets after planting?
They are planning targets. Watering, settling, and new growth can change heights quickly. Recheck every one to two weeks in peak growth and trim gradually to maintain structure.