Evergreen conifers are popular as hedges, after all you want to be protected from prying eyes even in winter. The Douglas fir grows quickly and promises quick privacy. Does it fit well into a hedge otherwise?
Douglas fir forms an opaque hedge
A year-round opaque hedge
The purpose of a hedge is to protect the enclosed property from strangers. It should prevent unauthorized entry just as effectively as unpleasant looks. In the latter case, it makes sense for the hedge to remain leafy all year round so that it does not regularly become transparent for a long time during the cold season.
Coniferous trees of all kinds are popular as evergreen plants for hedges. Young plants are commercially available at a certain height, so that sufficient privacy protection can be quickly achieved with them.
Douglas fir as a hedge plant
The fact that the Douglas fir keeps its green needles all year round is a plus that qualifies it as a hedge. The retail prices are also affordable, especially since it is a one-time investment. After planting, such a hedge can continue to fulfill its task for many years or even decades.
Despite the convincing arguments, nobody should rush to this conifer. There are definitely some disadvantages associated with the Douglas fir as a hedge plant that not everyone wants to accept. However, this should be considered before planting.
The rapid growth of the Douglas fir
The Douglas fir grows quickly, which initially promises a quick hedge. But that is too short-sighted. In the long run, the rapid and vigorous growth can involve a lot of tedious work.
- grows up to 40 cm per year
- can reach heights of up to 60 m
- requires a lot of pruning as a hedge
If you don't have the time or the inclination to constantly put on the scissors, you should keep your hands off the Douglas fir and prefer to reach for another conifer.
tips
The Serbian spruce is a good alternative as a hedge plant, where both the appearance and the need for care are convincing.