Hedges: A Guide to Creating a Privacy Screen with Color and Interest
Introduction
Hedges are a great way to add privacy, wind protection, color, and dimension to your landscape. They can be made from a variety of plants, and there are many different ways to design them. In this article, we will discuss the different types of hedges, how to design a hedge, and how to care for it.
Types of Hedges
There are two main types of hedges: evergreen and deciduous. Evergreen hedges retain their leaves all year round, while deciduous hedges lose their leaves in the fall.
Evergreen Hedges
Evergreen hedges are a good choice for privacy screens because they provide year-round coverage. Some popular evergreen hedge plants include:
- Boxwood
- Holly
- Arborvitae
- Yew
- Juniper
Deciduous Hedges
Deciduous hedges can be a good choice for adding color and interest to your landscape. Some popular deciduous hedge plants include:
- Lilac
- Fothergilla
- Red chokeberry
- Carolina allspice
- Abelia
Designing a Hedge
When designing a hedge, there are a few things to keep in mind:
- Purpose: What is the purpose of your hedge? Are you looking for privacy, wind protection, or both?
- Size: How tall and wide do you want your hedge to be?
- Shape: What shape do you want your hedge to be? Some popular hedge shapes include:
- Formal: Hedges with straight lines and sharp angles
- Informal: Hedges with curved lines and soft edges
- Plants: What plants do you want to use for your hedge? Consider the size, shape, and color of the plants, as well as their growing requirements.
Planting a Hedge
Once you have designed your hedge, it is time to plant it. Here are the steps:
- Dig a trench that is twice as wide as the root ball of the plants you are using.
- Place the plants in the trench, spacing them according to the recommended spacing for the type of plant.
- Backfill the trench with soil and tamp it down firmly.
- Water the hedge deeply.
Caring for a Hedge
Once your hedge is planted, it is important to care for it properly. Here are some tips:
- Water: Hedges need regular watering, especially during the first year after planting.
- Fertilize: Hedges should be fertilized twice a year, in the spring and fall.
- Prune: Hedges should be pruned regularly to maintain their shape and size.
- Pest and disease control: Hedges can be susceptible to pests and diseases, so it is important to monitor them regularly and take steps to control any problems.
Conclusion
Hedges are a great way to add privacy, wind protection, color, and dimension to your landscape. By following the tips in this article, you can create a beautiful and healthy hedge that will last for many years.
