A hedgerow is a linear planting of closely spaced trees and shrubs designed to form a dense, living screen. These natural boundaries offer significant ecological and practical benefits beyond defining property lines. They create sheltered habitats and reliable food sources for local wildlife, provide effective visual privacy, and act as natural windbreaks. Establishing a successful, long-term hedgerow requires careful consideration of the site and species selection.
Selecting the Right Plants and Location
Before selecting plants, thoroughly assess the planting site. Evaluate the soil type (clay, sandy, or loamy) and drainage characteristics. The amount of daily sunlight exposure is also significant, as it directly impacts the growth rate and density of species. Understanding these environmental factors guides the selection process toward plants that will naturally thrive in the specific location.
Choosing native species is advantageous for maximizing benefits to local biodiversity. Native plants support a wider range of insects, birds, and small mammals because they have co-evolved with local fauna, providing reliable food and nesting materials. Incorporating a mix of species, including deciduous plants for seasonal interest and evergreens for year-round screening, enhances the hedge’s resilience and ecological value. A diverse hedgerow is less susceptible to a single pest or disease outbreak than a monoculture planting.
The required plant density is determined by the desired function; privacy hedges need closer spacing than simple boundary markers. Spacing plants between 12 and 18 inches apart is a common recommendation for creating a dense barrier quickly. Bare-root stock is the most economical option and is best planted during the dormant season (late fall to early spring). Container-grown plants, while more expensive, offer flexibility and can be planted later in the year, though they require immediate attention to watering.
Preparing the Ground and Planting Technique
Proper preparation significantly improves the hedgerow’s survival rate and establishment speed. First, clear all existing vegetation, especially perennial weeds and turf, which compete aggressively for water and nutrients. Loosen the soil to a depth of 12 to 18 inches using a fork or tiller to facilitate root penetration and improve aeration. Marking the planting line with stakes and string ensures the hedgerow maintains a straight appearance.
For long hedgerows, digging a continuous trench is more efficient than excavating individual holes. The trench must be wide enough to spread out the roots and deep enough so the plant’s root collar sits flush with the surrounding soil level. For maximum density, use a double-row pattern, staggering the second row 12 to 18 inches behind the first. This staggered pattern allows for greater light penetration and air circulation while maximizing the visual screen.
Before planting bare-root stock, soak the roots in water for a few hours to rehydrate them. Position the plant in the trench or hole, carefully spreading the roots radially outward and downward to prevent them from circling. The root collar, which is the slightly swollen area where the stem meets the roots, must be placed precisely at the final soil level. Planting too deep can lead to stem rot, while planting too shallow risks root exposure and drying.
Begin backfilling the trench with loosened soil, gently shaking the plant to settle the soil around the root hairs and eliminate air pockets. Air pockets dry out the roots and prevent the uptake of water and nutrients. Once the trench is filled halfway, gently firm the soil to create good contact between the roots and the surrounding medium. Finish filling the trench, then lightly firm the surface again, avoiding excessive compaction.
Following the planting process, a thorough and deep initial watering is necessary to settle the soil and fully hydrate the roots. This first watering is more important than subsequent waterings, as it removes remaining air gaps and initiates immediate rehydration. The soil must be soaked completely, not just dampened on the surface, to encourage the roots to grow downward and establish quickly.
Post-Planting Care and Establishment
The greatest threat to newly planted hedgerows is competition from weeds during the first two to three years. Establishing a weed-free zone extending at least two feet on either side of the plants is paramount for successful establishment. Apply a thick layer of organic mulch, such as wood chips or shredded bark, immediately after planting. The mulch layer should be three to four inches deep but kept several inches away from the plant stems to prevent moisture buildup and collar rot.
Consistent moisture management is the most important factor for survival during the first year, particularly in summer. Watering should be deep and infrequent, aiming to saturate the root zone completely to encourage deep root growth. If browsing animals like rabbits or deer are present, install temporary tree shelters or mesh guards. These guards protect the soft bark and terminal buds, allowing the plant to focus its energy on establishing its root system.
Initial pruning is necessary to encourage the dense, bushy growth characteristic of a good privacy hedge. In the first year after planting, cut back the main stems by about one-third of their height. This action stimulates lateral bud break lower down, promoting branching near the base where density is desired. Delaying this formative pruning results in tall, leggy plants that lack density at the bottom, compromising the hedge’s screening ability.