What would we do without hedges in the gardenThey not only fulfill aesthetic functions, but also serve to differentiate spaces and create boundaries and divisions in the garden, and even to hide areas that are not so well seen. In addition, if the garden is located in an open and uncluttered area, they function as retaining walls that can stop the wind, making them a popular choice for landscaping planning. For this reason, it is essential to know more about the types of hedges in the garden.
Types of hedges
There is a great variety of hedges that you can choose according to your needs and their appearance. The kinds of hedges They vary in size and shape, so it is important to know the different options available.
Within garden hedgesThere tall hedges and dense, which serve as a living fence or retaining wall that differentiates spaces. Generally, it is evergreen species These varieties allow you to divide the garden into plots. In this case, you'll need to carefully evaluate the planting location, as they can create far-reaching shade. Popular varieties include:
- Leyland Cypress (Cupressocyparis leylandii): fast growing and easy to maintain.
- Laurel (Prunus laurocerasus): known for its dense growth and resistance.
- Tejo (Taxus baccata): appreciated for its density and ability to be pruned into various shapes.
If you don't want to take any risk, then you can opt for the low hedges, which are low in height and, while they also delimit areas, they serve an aesthetic function in that they delimit shapes. They are ideal for classical gardens. The most suitable species include:
- Photinia: dwarf and colorful, allowing you to create attractive borders.
- Boxwood (Buxus): popular for its ease of trimming and adaptability.
- Lonicera nitida: widely used to make figures due to its compact growth.
Amongst the types of hedges, there are also the informal hedges, which are more free-form and natural versions, as the idea is for them to blend in with the surrounding landscape. If the intention is to create a space without creating too many boundaries, this type of hedge will be the best choice. Examples of plants that can adapt to this style are:
- Abelia: offers fragrant flowers and natural growth.
- pyracantha: known for its thorns and defensive ability.
- Ivy: Excellent for creating informal hedges and covering walls.
Uses of hedges
In addition to the functions mentioned, the hedges also serve to reduce noise, as is the case in urban gardensThey act as effective sound barriers, absorbing sounds and improving the quality of life in noisy environments. They are also chosen for to border roads and even to protect weaker or more delicate species, providing a safe environment for the growth of more vulnerable plants. When considering the types of hedges in the garden, it is useful to evaluate its functionality in the local ecosystem.
In relation to their usefulness, it is important to consider the plants that are chosen not only for their height and shape, but also for their specific function in the garden ecosystem. Hedges can provide food and shelter for birds and insects, promoting biodiversity in the area. Some hedges can also help prevent soil erosion and improve air quality.
The choice of the type of hedge to plant can depend on several factors, including:
- Desired function: Do you want privacy? Do you want protection from the wind? Or simply a decorative element?
- Climate and soil: It is essential to choose plants suitable for your local climate and soil characteristics.
- Height and maintenance: Consider how much time you're willing to dedicate to maintaining your chosen hedges. For more information on this topic, visit .
Deciduous vs. Deciduous Hedges evergreen hedges
Deciduous hedges are those lose their leaves during the fall, which can be advantageous if a seasonal change in the landscape is desired. These hedges offer a beautiful display of colors in the fall and can allow more light during the winter. However, they do not provide year-round privacy.
Furthermore, the evergreen hedges They are ideal for those looking for a constant barrier privacy and a touch of greenery year-round. They retain their leaves, providing dense and effective coverage. Examples include:
- Beech (Fagus sylvatica): offers seasonal beauty and marcescent leaves.
- conifers like cypress and fir provide evergreen shelter and are easy to prune.
Tips for choosing and maintaining hedges
When choosing and maintaining hedges for your garden, several aspects must be taken into account and adequate planning must be carried out:
- Soil preparation: Make sure you prepare the soil properly, adding organic matter and aerating it. Soil quality will influence the healthy growth of your hedges.
- Distance between floors: Don't plant shrubs too close together, to prevent them from becoming spindly and stripped of leaves at the lower level. A spacing of 50 to 75 cm is ideal, depending on the species.
- Regular pruning: Keep your hedges trimmed and well-formed. Pruning should be done at least twice a year to ensure compact, healthy growth.
The right tools are essential for proper hedge maintenance. Consider investing in a good hedge trimmer and other gardening tools that will make the pruning and trimming process easier, ensuring your hedges always look their best. For more information on garden design, visit how to work on garden design.
