If the green enclosure reaches a certain size, the earth sometimes appears bare due to a lack of planting. The root system becomes visible and weeds can spread. All of this can be prevented by underplanting. You can find out which plants are suitable for this and how to set them in the following article.
If the hedge is high enough, there is nothing wrong with planting it under
What is an underplanting?
Surely you have noticed it while walking in the forest: In the natural environment there is no ground that remains unvegetated for a long time. In addition to the visual aspects, ground covers fulfill other useful tasks:
- The soil climate is improved.
- Weeds cannot spread freely.
- Less water evaporates from the soil.
- Erosion is prevented.
- Many species are bee friendly and a valuable food source for insects.
Which plants are suitable?
The perennials for underplanting are not only satisfied with little light, but also cope with root pressure and nutrient competition. These green survivors include:
- creeping medlar,
- periwinkle,
- fat man,
- elf flower,
- carpet gold strawberry,
- japan sedge,
- Caucasus forget-me-not,
- corkspur,
- ferns,
- Large-flowered St. John's Wort.
How are the ground covers planted correctly?
The perennials are ideally planted in late summer, as weed growth slows down at this point. They are then no longer exposed to the stress of hot summer days and still have enough time to grow until winter.
How densely you have to place the selected plants is usually noted on the plant label. Please keep in mind: Fast-growing species will quickly become competitors if they are planted too close together. A little patience is rewarded with a beautiful carpet of flowers and strong individual plants.
The planting
Frugal underplanting requires good starting conditions.
- Digging is not possible under the hedge, instead loosen the top layer of soil with a digging fork and remove all weeds.
- Enrich the soil with compost or potting soil.
- The perennials are submerged in a bucket of water until no more bubbles rise. This promotes root formation.
- Water and mulch after digging.
tips
Planting aromatic wild strawberries under the hedge is no longer an insider tip. Blueberries or cranberries are also very suitable for greening under the green enclosure. These plants not only provide an attractive appearance, but also provide delicious fruit.