Privacy hedges are a good way to mark a boundary or shield an area from view, and there are several tips for successful growing. Gardeners should decide if the area will need to be shielded year-round or seasonally before choosing a particular plant variety. Another factor to consider is the rate of growth and mature height offered by different species. Some types of privacy hedges offer thick evergreen foliage while other varieties feature colorful blossoms during the spring or summer. Privacy hedges should be planted in a double row during their beginning stages and thinned out after root establishment.
Before planting privacy hedges, gardeners must decide about using an evergreen or deciduous species. Choose an evergreen variety if year-round privacy is required. A deciduous species may be selected if privacy is only desired during the summertime. Other factors to consider are the growing area’s climate and soil conditions well as the amount of sunlight it receives. A visit to a local plant nursery might be helpful for selecting the correct species.
The annual growth rate and mature height of each plant variety should also be considered. Some species of shrubbery grow at a much faster rate than others, and this can be important when privacy hedges must be created quickly. May species grow to a mature height of 20 to 40 feet (6 to 12 meters) and may encounter problems in wooded areas. Some of the fastest growing shrubs include the Yaupon and Nellie Stevens holly plants. The Leyland cypress tree is one of the tallest privacy hedge plants and often reaches a mature height of 40 feet (12 meters).
Appearance is another important factor to consider when growing a privacy hedge. Some plant varieties offer lush, green foliage while others may produce blossoms or berries at certain times. The Yew and Siberian pea shrub, for example, provide dense foliage for maximum privacy. One of the most interesting choices for solid green foliage is the Arizona cypress which emits a citrus fragrance when touched. The Sweet Viburnum shrub also produces a fragrant aroma along with white blossoms in the springtime.
A privacy hedge usually grows best when started from potted shrubbery. The shrubs should be planted in a double row and allowed to establish themselves in the soil for a period of time. The plants may be thinned out slightly after the establishment period to allow sufficient growing room. A small area around and beneath the planting hole should be softened for best results. The new hedges must be watered weekly and fertilized annually.