How to Grow Private Hedges
- 1). Select a fast-growing hedge. There are several such options, including boxwood and Cyprus. The type of hedge is a matter of personal taste, and both evergreens and deciduous hedges are available for a private hedge. For fences, grow a hedge that can grow through the fence.
- 2). Talk to a local nursery for spacing. Each type of hedge has different spacing requirements, so a professional should be consulted to ensure the plants are spaced appropriately. The idea is to space them so that when they grow, they will ultimately meet and create a privacy hedge. Some will need to be spaced closely together, while others need to be spaced farther apart.
- 3). Remove grass and other plants from the planting site. There should be no weeds, grass or other plants that can interfere with the growth of the hedge.
- 4). Break up the dirt and prepare the soil. The soil should be loose and broken up to about two feet or so to ensure there is plenty of space for the roots.
- 5). Obtain the hedges. They can be purchased in nurseries or through catalogues, depending on the type of hedge being used.
- 6). Dig holes spaced appropriately for the type of hedge to a depth that can cover the roots. Transfer the hedge to the hole, taking the entire root with it, and covering the root with dirt. Make sure that the soil added to the top has fertilizer worked through it to help the plant grow faster. The type of fertilizer will differ depending on the type of hedge. Make sure that the hedges are planted in a straight line. If planted along a fence, this will not be a problem.
- 7). Water the hedges generously. They should be watered several inches the first time, then a few inches a week, and gradually the water should be lessened when the roots become established.
- 8). Prune the hedge a few times a year. Hedges will grow thicker if pruned often. Wait until the hedges are the preferred height before the first pruning.
- 9). Add fertilizer once a year. This will encourage the plant to continue growing and will allow the plant to remain healthy and strong.
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