- The width of a beech hedge depends on the cut
- Do not sit too close to walls or property lines
- space for maintenance work
When planning a beech hedge, it is important not only to calculate the height, but also the later width of the hedge. Even if beech hedges can be cut quite narrowly, there must be enough space to the neighboring property.
Regular pruning can curb growth in width
The width of a beech hedge depends on the cut
The width of your beech hedge depends primarily on how you cut it. It is customary to keep the hedge wider at the bottom and taper to a point at the top.
- Minimum width: 40 to 50 centimeters
- Minimum height: 70 centimeters
- Maximum height: up to 400 centimeters
The minimum width of a beech hedge is 40 to 50 centimeters. If you want a wider hedge up to a meter or even more, don't prune the beeches back as much.
The height of a beech hedge depends primarily on your personal taste. The minimum height is around 70 centimetres, and a beech hedge can grow up to four meters without any problems. In terms of height, however, the municipal regulations for hedges are decisive. To be on the safe side, ask the municipality how high a hedge can be at most.
Do not sit too close to walls or property lines
Do not place beech hedges too close to walls or buildings. Even if the width of the hedge can be kept under control - this is not possible with the roots.
Over time, beeches can develop very strong roots that lift up paving slabs, destroy wiring or damage masonry. This can lead to problems with the neighbors in particular, but also with the community, which has to repair sidewalks because of the roots.
space for maintenance work
A beech hedge needs to be trimmed twice a year. While cutting the top and front isn't a big problem, maintaining the back can be tricky.
Experienced gardeners therefore recommend keeping a distance of at least 50 centimeters from the fence. You can then easily cut the hedge on the back without having to do acrobatic contortions.
tips
If you don't have enough space, you should plant a hornbeam hedge instead of a beech hedge. It remains narrower overall and does not develop such strong roots. Hornbeams are also easier to care for and do better in sandy soils than beeches.