As the warmer weather approaches, garden hedge maintenance moves to the top of the to-do gardening list. But how do we keep these plants healthy and beautiful?
Well, there are specific steps, depending on what type of plants you have, that should be taken, as well as tools that will make maintenance easier.
Today my favorite tips just might save you some time!
Note: make sure to check for nesting birds before you start any pruning work on your hedges.
Box Hedge
Hedges are often the most attractive and prominent structure in a garden. Proper hedge cutting can make their beauty even more noticeable, enhancing the overall appearance of your yard.
Formal hedging plants such as Box Hedge are usually a much neater structure and require a firmer outline when being trimmed.
They are really popular because they tolerate shade, drought, and tough growing conditions, making them the ideal choice for formal hedging in your garden.
When to cut your box hedge.
Soil Conditions
Watering
Fertiliser
Red Robin Hedging
Once established, Red Robin is one of the most popular hedging plants.
It produces a brilliant burst of deep red leaves and if maintained properly will continue this show all summer long.
New growth leaves are a deep red and slowly fade to copper and then a lush green.
When to prune Red Robin Hedging
When it comes to pruning your hedge it is best to wait about 6 weeks after the growing season kicks in to maintain cover.
The last prune should be before September to avoid bare hedges during the winter months.
Depending on your requirements, you can prune Red Robin about 3 times during the growing season.
Hardy Hedge Plants
Red Robin is able to take a rigorous cut back if the hedge gets out of control and will pretty much look after itself once established.
Watering
In warmer weather make sure to keep the plants well-watered.
Fertiliser
A general fertiliser at the base of the plants, such as fish, blood, and bone meal will help them thrive.
They will grow in full sun and shade and are hugely popular with our customers because they are low maintenance and fast-growing.
The Red Robin an ideal option for a garden hedge as it is quick growing and will provide security, shelter, privacy, and noise reduction while maintaining a glossy green & red appearance.
As always, sharp shears or pruning secateurs are required when trimming hedges.
Laurel Hedge Maintenance
Laurel is a fast-growing hardy evergreen hedge with large glossy green leaves.
They can grow over 2 feet per year and provide great privacy for your garden.
This dense hedge will also block out noise and help reduce air pollution from traffic if you live in a built-up area.
When is the best time to prune or trim your Laurel hedge?
Late spring or early summer is the best time to trim back your laurel hedge.
This will quickly promote new growth and have your hedge a brilliant lush green for the Summer.
Laurel Hedging grows well in full sun or heavy shade and a very popular with gardeners across Ireland.
Garden Hedge Maintenance – Copper Beech
Copper Beech is a low maintenance Eye-catching purple colour in Summer Months. It is a moderate growing hedge that Retains brown/golden foliage in the Winter.
When to prune Copper Beech Hedging
August is the best time to trim copper beech hedging. The hedge will respond by growing new leaves, ready for the winter months.
Soil Conditions
Copper Beech can handle a wide range of soil types. It prefers nutrient-rich and fertile soils. Avoid water-logged soil or very heavy clay.
Watering
Water frequently during warmer weather – especially on younger plants.
Fertiliser
A general-purpose fertiliser such as Blood and Bone Meal or something Nitrogen-rich will do the job.
They will grow in full sun and shade and are very popular with our customers because they are fast-growing and hardy in colder weather.
You can find many more tips and information about garden hedge maintenance, for planting, pruning, and maintaining hedges through our team at Cullen Nurseries.
Cullen Nurseries is family run in Co.Carlow and provide a range of hedges and trees for you to start planting. Find a range of top plant varieties and other products on our site, ready for planting in your outdoor space and brightening up your home. Cullen nurseries can help you to work on your hedges and plants, bringing nature to your home.
