Gold Coast Gardener

April 30, 2006

By Gene Joyner, Extension Agent
Palm Beach County Cooperative Extension Service

If you look at most properties down here and check out the types of landscape plants used, one which is always used in abundance is for hedging. There are many dozens of types of plants that are suitable for hedging material and the majority are fast growing shrubs or trees which are maintained as a hedge.

Hedges are used in properties to define boundaries, to blot out unsightly views and to make interesting designs. Most hedges have green foliage, but there are types that are popular because of their colored foliage. Crotons and copper leaf would be good examples.

Every large garden center and nursery carries many varieties of plants suitable for hedges. When put out in the landscape hedges are generally spaced between 18 to 24 inches so that you have a dense wall of plant growth for security or privacy effect. Plants put too far apart often over time will have open spaces at the bottom which are highly undesirable.

To keep hedges dense and attractive don’t cut straight vertical sides. Always have the sides of the hedge slightly angled where it’s wider at the bottom than at the top. This way light falls the whole vertical distance of the plant and you don’t lose the base of the plant due to shading.

Some hedges will produce flowers, but if you are hedging and trimming regularly don’t expect to see a lot of flowers because you’re cutting off potential bloom buds. Good examples would be hibiscus.

Hedges do need fertilizing 2 to 3 times a year depending on the age and soil conditions, but avoid excessive fertilization unless you just simply like to trim hedges. The more they grow the quicker they will have to be pruned.

If you are close to the ocean or intracoastal, make sure that you select hedges that will be tolerant of salt spray on strong windy days. If you are far inland, also choose types for hedges that are cold hardy so you don’t lose all your privacy when we get the first frost or freeze in the winter.

Most hedges if properly maintained will last in excess of 25 years without trouble. People that complain about hedges not lasting long periods of time often are guilty of not managing them properly. Some hedges are more prune to insects and diseases, too, which might require occasional spraying to keep them under control.

For information about hedges suitable for area landscaping, contact the Palm Beach County Extension office. The Extension Service has a free publication on plants suitable for hedges, too, that can be picked up at their offices. Dial 233-1750 in the north and central county areas or 276-1260 in the south county area.