Hedging Plants

Hedge Plant Tips

When it comes to creating privacy, defining boundaries, or adding aesthetic appeal to your garden, hedge plants are an excellent choice. Whether you're looking for a fast-growing screen to block unwanted views or a coastal-tolerant barrier that withstands salty winds, selecting the right hedge plant is crucial. This guide will walk you through the best hedge plants available, including those suited for New Zealand gardens, and provide tips on how to create the perfect living fence.

Why Choose Hedge Plants?

Hedge plants offer several benefits beyond just privacy. They act as windbreaks, reduce noise, and provide shelter for wildlife. Moreover, they contribute to the visual appeal of your garden, offering a lush and green backdrop to your outdoor space. Let's explore some of the best hedge plants that can cater to various needs.

Fast-Growing Hedges for Quick Privacy

If you're looking for a quick solution to create a private retreat, fast-growing hedges are the way to go. These plants grow rapidly, forming dense barriers in just a few seasons.

• Leyland Cypress is one of the most popular choices for fast-growing hedges. Its rapid growth rate and tall stature make it ideal for creating a high screen. This evergreen conifer can grow up to three feet per year, quickly forming a thick wall of greenery.
• Syzygium 'Resilience' is another excellent option for those seeking a fast-growing hedge. Known for its dense and colourful foliage, it thrives in most soil types and climates. Regular trimming will maintain its shape and encourage bushier growth.

Coastal-Tolerant Barriers

Gardening by the coast comes with its own set of challenges, particularly due to salt-laden winds. Choosing coastal-tolerant plants ensures your hedge will thrive despite these harsh conditions.

• Griselinia littoralis, native to New Zealand, is a robust plant that handles coastal environments well. Its glossy, bright green leaves create a dense barrier, and it responds well to trimming, allowing for a tidy, formal appearance.
• Tamarix, or Salt Cedar, is perfect for coastal gardens. It has feathery foliage and pink flowers that add visual interest. While it can withstand salty winds, it also thrives in well-drained soils, making it versatile for different locations.

Best Hedge Plants in New Zealand

New Zealand’s climate can vary significantly from region to region, so selecting hedge plants that suit local conditions is important.

• Pittosporum are versatile plants found commonly in New Zealand gardens. With its varied foliage colors and ability to grow in sun or partial shade, Pittosporum is a go-to for many gardeners. It also handles trimming well, making it easy to maintain.
• Corokia, also known as Wire Netting Bush, is another native plant that's ideal for hedging. It features small leaves and produces fragrant flowers, followed by bright berries. Corokia is hardy and adapts well to different soil conditions, making it a reliable choice.

Creating a Living Fence

A living fence not only serves as a boundary but also adds natural beauty to your landscape. Here's how to create and maintain a healthy, thriving hedge.

Planting Tips

• Choose the Right Location: Ensure your hedge receives adequate sunlight and has well-drained soil.
• Space Plants Appropriately: Proper spacing is crucial for plant health. Overcrowding can lead to poor growth and disease.
• Water Regularly: Young plants require consistent watering to establish roots. Once mature, they will need less frequent watering.

Maintenance

• Regular Trimming: Trim your hedge regularly to maintain its shape and encourage denser growth. The best time to trim is late winter or early spring.
• Fertilization: Apply shrub fertilizer in spring to promote healthy growth.
• Pest and Disease Control: Monitor your hedge for signs of pests or diseases and take action promptly to prevent spread.