A dense, decorative beech hedge is a real eye-catcher on the garden fence. However, not every garden is ideal for beech hedges. Beeches need a lot of space and are not quite as undemanding and easy to care for as, for example, hornbeams.

When creating a beech hedge, there should be a distance of at least half a meter between the individual plants

Beech hedge or hornbeam hedge?

Beech trees thrive better in slightly moist, nutrient-rich soil that is as sunny as possible. The hornbeam is also content with sandy soil and grows even in shady areas.

European beeches are flat-rooted and their roots spread widely. Hornbeams are deep-rooters. The roots are not quite as strong as those of the beeches. A hornbeam hedge can therefore be more advantageous in the vicinity of house walls and supply lines.

Beech hedges need a lot of space

When planning a beech hedge, you need to consider the following things:

  • course
  • length
  • broad
  • height
  • Distance to the property line

Remember that you need to keep a certain distance from neighboring properties, especially if you want the hedge to be taller.

Beech hedges are at least 50 to 70 centimeters wide. The distance to the property line is regulated by the municipality. Better to inquire beforehand.

Only young beech hedges can still be moved if necessary. If you find out after a few years that the location is unfavorable or that the hedge is in the way, all that remains is to dig up the trees and their roots.

How to plant a beech hedge

Stretch a planting cord along the intended course of the hedge. This is the only way to make the beech hedge really straight.

Dig a ditch. Depending on the size of the root ball, it must be at least 40 centimeters deep. Mix the soil with mature compost to ensure the young beeches are fed.

Plant the small beeches about 50 centimeters apart in the ditch, so that there are two for every meter of hedge length. If the trees are still very small, you can plant up to four beeches per meter. The hedge is then rather dense. However, after a few years you will have to remove every second tree.

It doesn't work without care

Beech hedges should be trimmed twice a year. Only then will they branch well and not bare too much at the bottom.

tips

Some red beech species keep their foliage even in winter. These varieties are particularly suitable as privacy screens. Hornbeams, on the other hand, lose all their leaves.

Category:

Garden design