Privacy hedges with wild-growing trees offer added value to people and nature. They can be designed in the form of similar cut hedges or mixed hedges. As a positive side effect, many trees develop edible fruits.
The hornbeam forms a beautiful, dense hedge
Choose native species
Use native species for the hedge design. They are valuable for the protection of wild animals because they provide food, shelter and breeding grounds. When making your selection, pay attention to the different site requirements in terms of soil, moisture and light. Plant non-toxic hedges so children don't pose a health risk from eating poisonous fruit.
cut hedges
Slow and densely growing shrubs are suitable for the design of cut hedges. Many species are capable of erupting sticks and tolerate radical pruning measures if necessary. They develop well-branched branches and can be kept very narrow, making these hedges ideal for privacy in small spaces.
1. Hornbeam (Carpinus betulus)
This species is undemanding and tolerant of heat and drought. In winter it retains the dead leaves, which provides an ideal retreat for birds. The withered foliage provides protection from prying eyes during the cold season.
2. Hawthorn (Crataegus monogyna)
The thorny shrub is an undemanding woody plant that is easy to cut back. After a total pruning, hawthorn will sprout again. The leaves can be affected by fire blight.
3. Field maple (Acer campestre)
This shade tolerant species grows as a tree or shrub. It is suitable for any soil and tolerates shady conditions. Due to its rapid growth, it is suitable for greening hedge gates or arbours. It should be trimmed at least twice a year.
4. Spruce (Picea abies)
The evergreen conifer can be used as a privacy hedge with regular pruning. He does not tolerate a total pruning.
Free-growing mixed hedges
A mixed hedge consists of different types of wood, which are arranged in two rows in a staggered manner. Plant several specimens of slow-growing shrubs in small groups. Low-growing species should be placed at the edge of the mixed hedge. This type of hedge is a visually appealing privacy screen, the care of which is more complex than that of a standard cut hedge. When selecting the species, pay attention to flowering times, fruit decoration and autumn colour.
1. Blackthorn (Prunus spinosa)
Sloe is a common name for this undemanding shrub with stoloniferous roots. It develops dark blue fruits that lose their sour taste after the first frosts. The dense growth offers optimal privacy.
2. Rowan (Sorbus aucuparia)
The species known as rowan is suitable for planting in mixed hedges or cut hedges. It is undemanding and develops red berries that are non-toxic to birds and humans.
3. Wild Roses (Pink)
Dog rose (Rosa canina), burnet rose (Rosa pimpinellifolia) and vine rose (Rosa rubiginosa) are among the native rose species that grow in well-drained soil. They are ideal shrubs for privacy hedges in sunny locations.
4. Cornelian cherry (Cornus mas)
This undemanding shrub prefers warm locations. It grows as a narrow shrub and forms cherry-like fruits that are edible.