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Hornbeam hedge planting

scdettmer69scdettmer69 Posts: 16
in Plants
So, after much thought we have decided to go for a hornbeam hedge when we remove the fence at the bottom of our garden (see pics) I have next to no gardening knowledge and have a number of questions. Firstly, the eagle eyed amongst you will notice there are two trees in the photos. They will be gone (to assure the nature lovers out there - the silver birch is dead and the pine tree has been deemed dangerous). Once felled they would sit along the line where the new hedge woul$ go. Will a hedge grow around them should I plant close enough. I do not have funds/time/ inclination to remove stumps completely. Other option is to move hedgeline forward. Would lose a little garden but hedge will back on to footpath for row of houses so not an issue from a property line perspective. Have read various blogs about planting, spacing and what to use with regards to fertilizer/bonemeal. Have sourced bare root 120cm-150cm plants which are available mid October. All thoughts/ideas/advice would be greatly appreciated. Oh, the hedge will be 10m long and we would like to grow a thick but not too wide hedge as it is primarily for privacy and hopefully wildlife.

Posts

  • FairygirlFairygirl Posts: 55,117
    edited September 2021
    My favourite hedge - hornbeam  :)
    If you can give the soil a good boost, and keep the plants really well watered, there shouldn't be a problem. I planted a hornbeam hedge in a previous property, and a stretch of it was between two very mature trees, and bordering a pavement, so the footings were also a factor. That part took a little longer to get going, but it was fine. 
    The only thing I'd say is - don't get them that height. Much easier to establish smaller whips, especially in the difficult area. 
    It's a good choice if you want to keep a neater, shallower depth. You can have height without width with it.  :)

    Should have said - use a good mulch of bark or similar after planting and watering. That helps retain moisture and also breaks down over time and feeds the soil. 
    It's a place where beautiful isn't enough of a word....



    I live in west central Scotland - not where that photo is...
  • ButtercupdaysButtercupdays Posts: 4,546
    Don't forget you will need access to clip the footpath side. If that is not readily accessible you will need to leave room on your side.
  • scdettmer69scdettmer69 Posts: 16
    Thanks for the advice. If the bigger plants are not a good idea what size would you suggest? Thanks again. 
  • FairygirlFairygirl Posts: 55,117
    edited September 2021
    Around two or three feet is a good size for most hedging @scdettmer69 . It establishes more easily, and grows on well.  :)
    The bare root season is almost on us, so it's a great time to look for suppliers and get an order in. Much cheaper  ;)
    It also means that if any whips don't 'take' for any reason, you're not left with a big gap to try and sort.   :)
    Hedges Direct is often recommended here on the forum, and I've used Hopes Grove Nursery in the past, so those two are a good place to start   :)
    Sorry - I've just seen you've already sourced a supplier. Just take a look at the sizes etc 
    It's a place where beautiful isn't enough of a word....



    I live in west central Scotland - not where that photo is...
  • scdettmer69scdettmer69 Posts: 16
    Cool. Thanks again. I also live in Germany so delivery would be an issue from the uk :) 
  • FairygirlFairygirl Posts: 55,117
    Ah sorry @scdettmer69 - I forgot that! Not had enough tea yet, is my defence  ;)

    I wish you well with it. I know I'm slightly biased, but Hornbeam is beautiful.   :)
    It's a place where beautiful isn't enough of a word....



    I live in west central Scotland - not where that photo is...
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