A well chosen hedge

Hedges give us order in our chaotic lives and gardens. Historically, tightly clipped hedges, shrubs and a well formed garden presented a property that appeared organised, affluent and in control! 

While not as instant as a fence or screen, a well chosen hedge will give shelter, a fresh back-drop to display your lovely garden and soften the hard-scaping lines. Hedges offer a great solution if you are tight on space.

 Low maintenance with just a clip twice a year, hedges also can fill a large space blocking out most weeds.

 The key to a good hedge is choosing the right plant. A deciduous hedge such as Hornbeam, Beech or Barberry allow more light in winter and attractive seasonal changes. Evergreen hedges provide a lovely back drop to the sculptural deciduous trees of winter. The latest trends in hedges include Feijoa, Westringia, Viburnum, Choisya, Corokia, Akeake and Totara. There is a new release Germander called Teucrium fruitcans ‘Platinum Baby’. It is compact, upright growing for a small, silvery hedge that has a tidier habit than it’s predecessor.

 The general rule when planting a hedge; the smaller the hedge, the closer together, planting at approximately half the height of the desired hedge. I like to give them a light clip when planted, then two or three times a year. Each clip will multiply the branches for a denser hedge.

 Easy maintenance yes, but don’t forget your hedge completely. During dryer times water your hedge well. Add compost along the base of the plants and a slow release fertiliser annually. Taper taller hedges slightly at the top to allow the light into the hedge.

 For help choosing and planting a hedge call me at Leaf. Leisa Browne, Landscape Designer, Dunedin 03 470 1114 or 0274 156555.