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Leylandii Trees
paulsmith787032824
Posts: 4
in Plants
Hello there,
Subject matter - the dreaded Leylandii, but needed for a distinct reason - screening. My question - is it possible to grow these plants at a lower density than a hedge, also stripping and shaping lower branches as growth occurs to create a bare stem of around 1.5 metres. This would be focussed to produce dense foliage growth above fence height, acting as raised hedge screen, whilst providing relative space and light for other planting at lower levels.
If this is possible, what is the best way to achieve it? Are there particular sub-varieties which are better suited to this?
Thank you.
Subject matter - the dreaded Leylandii, but needed for a distinct reason - screening. My question - is it possible to grow these plants at a lower density than a hedge, also stripping and shaping lower branches as growth occurs to create a bare stem of around 1.5 metres. This would be focussed to produce dense foliage growth above fence height, acting as raised hedge screen, whilst providing relative space and light for other planting at lower levels.
If this is possible, what is the best way to achieve it? Are there particular sub-varieties which are better suited to this?
Thank you.
0
Posts
There are plenty of other non-invasive possibilities but they will be much slower growers.
I would think more along the lines of putting a trellis along the top of the fence with evergreen climbers planted along it.
However my neighbour has created a high-level dormer and balcony overlooking our rear private patio area, hence the need for screening beyond the 6 foot fence that already exists. Based on trigonometry the screen needs to be at least 5m
My trouble is that despite creating a pebble lined land drain pipe down the side of this plot, the soil in the area is still exceptionally moist. Despite a deep excavation it sits over clay, with pooling still evident in the currently empty planting holes, following our usual winter of heavy rain.
I don't think that Laurels, Photinias etc would deal with these conditions. Hence an interest in coniferous plants. Perhaps a Thuja -- Western Red Cedar, clear stemmed to 1.8m would be a compromise. Easier to control but still medium growth rate, dense and tolerant of water.
Not ideal, but we need to deal with the hands we are dealt. Would welcome any better suggestions though!
https://www.rhs.org.uk/plants/for-places/wet-soils
Seems unfair but if you are both reasonable it can be worked out.
Nuances in wording can make a difference
I believe it stems back from not stealing your neighbours firewood.
Might be wrong but a nice romantic gesture, steeped in history.
@paulsmith787032824
Anything you plant if the soil is soggy plant a little higher like a slight mound so the trunk and immediate base is above the wetter level.
It has worked here so far with a couple of shrubs that are borderline with wet badly draining soil.. I had failed in the past to keep them but so far fingers crossed it has worked.
Eleagnus ebbingei is a nice plant that can be kept to a narrow style.
I would imagine you could treat it the same to make a more pleached bare stemmed or topiary type top.
Don't quote me but look into them.
It does not mind being cut bad to a quite narrow hedge here.
There are several cultivars to choose from.
I failed with one a few years ago, but using the above slight mound method so far fingers crossed.
I got fed up with Cornus and the usual suspects for wet soil.
Sounds like you created a bit of a sump rather than drainage.
Sometimes it is better to leave a degree of clay and improve it as it will swell and hold the water.
When you cut into it and make holes they fill, like a line of least resistance is how I think of it.