Hedges are very common in New Zealand gardens. They’re a great living alternative to fences or borders, and they can also be used decoratively. This guide will help you choose the right hedge for your place, and show you how to take care of it.
Hedges are very common in New Zealand gardens. They’re a great living alternative to fences or borders, and they can also be used decoratively. This guide will help you choose the right hedge for your place, and show you how to take care of it.
These are traditionally formal and are often seen edging paths and walkways.
Easy to maintain if grown in well-drained soil, and have many varieties.
Offer a wide range to choose from, including many native varieties.
This is an attractive but hardy option and is a great wind break or privacy screen.
Vibrant green leaves in spring and grows well in most conditions.
Hugely popular, and grows well in warmer regions.
This is a good fast growing option.
Great in cooler areas, and turns from green in spring to golden in autumn.
A deep green, easy to grow option.
This is highly fragrant with creamy yellow and purple spring flowers.
Hedges always have a purpose, so think about what you are trying to achieve before selecting your variety. Is it shelter, privacy, fencing, screening, or a decorative border? Choose the right variety for your purposes.
Most hedges will do well in full sun to full shade. If you’re wondering what will grow well in your area, a good tip is to check what else on your street seems to be growing well, and simply do the same at your place.
Autumn is best for planting hedges to let them get established before winter, but they should do well anytime of year.
Hedges are best grown in in a rich, well drained, fertile soil.
Water daily over summer in the first year, hedges are thirsty and it can increase the speed of growth by 3-4 times. Water deeply and mulch to reduce competition from weeds.
Prune back your hedges by around a third at least once a year, this will help them become bushy. You should do this even if you want a tall hedge as helps it stops gaps forming.
Trim 3-4 times per year.
Start at the end of your hedge and work your way along for a consistent cut. Keep your shears level and you will get a crisp top. If you can, assess your cuts at eye-level to make sure you’re doing an even job.
When trimming hedges with electric shears, it’s important to maintain an even flow when you cut. This is the easiest way to get a crisp line on your hedge. Make sure that you keep the trimmer at a horizontal position, so you avoid an uneven line.
Depending your region and your chosen variety of hedging there are a variety of pest and disease that could affect your plant. It is best to bring a sample instore and we will help you out.
