Hedges are some of the greatest plant features to have in your garden. Not only do they make your outdoor space look more neat and welcoming, but they could also grant you more privacy on your own property. Professional Gardening Services UK is here to help you start your hedging journey and navigate you through the process of hedge planting and maintenance.
Table of Contents
When is the best time to plant a hedge
In general, it is considered the best time to start hedge planting is between November and March. However, the proper planting time depends on the type of shrub you choose. There are three main types of hedges to select from:
- Evergreen
- Semi-evergreen
- Deciduous
If you go for the evergreen or semi-evergreen option, consider planting the hedges in early autumn, up to late winter. As for deciduous plants, they are dormant during winter, so you can start planting as early as October.
Prepare the ground
In addition to knowing the right time to start, taking the time to prepare the soil before you plant a hedge is essential to a successful planting outcome. Weeds are one of the biggest enemies of garden hedges. Thus, you need to ensure your hedging has no competition and all weeds on, along, and near the hedgeline are cleared. For the best ground prep, apply weedkiller before planting.
A step-by-step guide
Prepare a hole in the ground
The first thing to do is take a shovel and dig a hole in the ground using a spade. You can widen the slit by rocking back and forth. Make sure your hole is large enough and deep enough to accommodate the hedge roots.
Gently place the roots
The next step is to place the roots just below ground level in the opening. It is important to dissolve any soil clods and remove debris. Next, let the soil settle around as you tug the hedge. And as for the root collar, let it rest at soil level.
Use appropriate soil
In order for your hedges to grow well, you need to provide them with good growth conditions. That is why it is detrimental to use appropriate soil or amend the garden soil, if needed. Hedges like acid and alkaline soils, rich on nutrients. So it is a good idea to add compost or organic matter.
Remove any obstacles like stones
Remember to pick out any large debris, stones or pebbles from the soil that may restrict the roots or affect future growth. Doing that when you plant a hedge would ensure your plant will develop healthy and its roots would remain intact.
Mulch
The damage weeds could cause to hedge plants likely outweighs any potential damage caused by disease and pests. The good news is, mulching immediately after planting is beneficial for your hedging and can prevent unwanted plant growth.
Avoid bark chippings, as they could deplete the soil of nitrogen. Organic mulch options like ardboard, grass clipping and leaf mould are non-hazardous and biodegradable, making them a great choice for a hedge garden.
Water
The rule of thumb is to water your hedges twice a week and strive for irrigation efficiency. However, newly planted hedges require extra care and a more consistent watering schedule to start off well, especially if the local climate is dry. Be careful not to overwater hedges! Look for overwater signs like yellow leaves, and if you notice something – water less.