Frequently Asked Questions
How close should I plant the shrubs?
How patient are you willing to be? There is some flexibility with how close to plant your hedge plants. The important thing is to balance your budget with how long you are willing to wait for your hedge to fill in. Planting closer will reduce the time it takes for your hedge to fill in, potentially by several years, but you will need to buy more plants.
The rate of growth is also something to consider. You may want to plant the very slow-growing Dwarf English Boxwood close enough that they're almost touching, but the big, fast-growing Waxleaf Privet will be able to fill in a bigger gap sooner.
Regardless of the plant, you always want to plant it closer than the mature width of the plant if you are looking for a seamless hedge.
When should I prune my hedge?
Pruning time will depend on the plant and how formal you want your hedge to be. Early spring before new growth is a good time to prune evergreen shrubs. If you are looking for a very refined, formal hedge, you might want to trim again after the first flush of new growth or trim any stray branches throughout the year.
However, early spring might not be a good time to trim your hedge if you are growing it for spring flowers, as you might be trimming off the flower buds. These are generally best to trim right after flowering. Make sure to check the care instructions for your particular plant to find out the best time to prune.
What plants make good hedges?
Hardy, dense shrubs tend to make the best hedges. The list above outlines our favorites, which includes boxwood, holly, cherry laurel, privet, and more. Your choice depends on factors such as desired height, growth rate, appearance, and specific growing conditions.
What makes good privacy hedges?
A good privacy hedge is one that provides you with the privacy you need, while also being attractive and easy to care for. See above for our top picks, and find more options here. Here are some factors to consider when choosing a privacy hedge:
- Height: Privacy hedges should be at least 6 feet tall, but taller is better. This will ensure that you have complete privacy from your neighbors or passersby.
- Density: The hedge should be dense enough to block out all views. Look for plants with thick leaves and branches.
- Evergreen: If you want privacy year-round, choose an evergreen hedge. This will keep your yard looking beautiful even in the winter.
What is a fast-growing hedge plant?
Some fast-growing hedge plants include lilac, privet, hibiscus, and roses. When choosing a hedge plant, remember to make sure it will thrive in your climate and follow any care instructions (like pruning and watering) to keep it healthy.Get more ideas for fast-growing shrubs here.
