We measure your trees the way you actually care about them- by how they’ll look in your yard after planting:
All tree heights are measured from the top of the soil line, not from the bottom of the pot. This gives you a true, realistic expectation of the above-ground height you’ll see once your trees are in the ground, rather than an inflated number that includes the container.
We also measure up to the natural, full “bushy” portion of the trees, not the absolute tallest stray tip that might stick up above the rest. The topmost "leader" can vary slightly from tree to tree, and it isn’t what creates privacy or fullness. Measuring to the bushy canopy gives you a more consistent, honest representation of the size and presence your tree will provide.
Your trees are always shipped in soil and in a pot... never bareroot! The pot & soil keep the roots protected, healthy, and ready to thrive quickly once they arrives. In general, a larger pot size supports a larger, healthier root system, which means a stronger tree that can establish faster and thrive long-term after planting.
Unfortunately, not all nurseries measure this way. Some may advertise a “5–6 ft.” tree but include the pot and root system in that measurement, which can make the tree look significantly shorter once it’s planted. At Nationwide Plants, you’ll never have to guess what you’re getting- we measure honestly from the soil line so you can shop with confidence and know exactly how your tree will look when it’s in its new home.