GIVE HEDGES A GOOD START

Good preparation is vitally important for hedges, as most hedging plants are grown close together and are therefore competing for food and water.

Start by clearing grass away from the area. Dig the soil and mix in some aged manure and/or compost at a rate of about one-quarter manure to soil. If drainage is questionable, it’s a good idea to also mix in some clay breaker and perhaps put a layer of gravel in the base of the planting furrow. Water well and, ideally, leave to sit for a couple of weeks.

Space plants at about one-quarter of the spread that each would normally reach. If you are creating a low hedge, you may need to plant them closer together for an adequate coverage of foliage close to the ground.

For a more informal look, you can space the plants further apart than you would for a formal hedge, as this allows the individual plants to express some of their natural shape and form. The westringia plants shown at left have been spaced with this in mind.

After planting, water the plants in well, and resist the temptation to fertilise them for the first month.

Once they have had a few weeks to settle in, you can start trimming the top and sides of each plant to encourage thicker new growth. Continue to prune the plants regularly, making sure you do this well before the hedge reaches the desired height.

Install a watering system or lay soaker hoses on either side of the row to make watering easier. Cover the soil surrounding the plants with organic mulch.