Growing a beech hedge yourself is no less complicated than planting a hedge of conifers or other hedge plants. The condition of the soil at the desired location plays an important role. Beeches don't do well in every soil.

Beech hedges need nutrient-rich soil to thrive

A good location is important

Beeches like it sunny to semi-shady. However, they also thrive in the shade if necessary. However, the location must be right:

  • permeable soil
  • not too sour
  • always slightly damp
  • slightly humorous
  • no waterlogging!

A beech hedge will not grow well on dry sandy soil. If you cannot meet the site conditions, it is better to plant a hornbeam hedge. Hornbeams are not beeches, but belong to the birch family. They also thrive well in dry soil.

How many beeches do you need for your hedge?

To calculate the number of beech trees required for the hedge, measure the desired length. When fully grown, there should be two beeches per meter.

In the beginning, when the trees are still very small, you can plant three to four beeches per meter. But then you have to saw off the excess plants after a few years.

If the hedge is to be very wide, plant the beeches in a zigzag pattern. The planting distance should be 50 centimeters to the other trees.

How to plant the beech hedge in the garden

Autumn is the best time to plant a beech hedge. Dig a trench about 50 centimeters deep. Loosen the soil well, improve it with compost and provide drainage if necessary. Plant the trees at the desired spacing in the ditch.

Then the earth is filled in and not too firmly trampled around the beech. Now you have to water the new hedge well. In some soils it may be necessary to slurry them.

Finally, with larger beeches, place a support post next to the tree to which you tie the beech.

tips

When planting a beech hedge, you should work in pairs if possible. While one holds the sapling, the other fills in the earth and tramples it down. So the beeches are really straight later on.

Category:

Garden design