Hedging is rather underrated in our gardens yet it can be a vital part of the basic structure, the bare bones that remain when everything else has died down.

Hedges are useful for defining areas in the garden and providing privacy with the added bonus of creating a home for more wildlife.

Not many people realise that a taller hedge can make a garden feel bigger, just as a high ceiling does a room.

Hedging doesn’t always have to be planted in a straight line but can curve and bend, creating interesting walkways.

Choosing deciduous hedging

If you are thinking of planting a deciduous hedge you can plant it any time after autumn.

Hornbeam (Carpinus betulus) is happy in heavy soil whereas Beech (Fagus sylvatica) is better in lighter soils.

Hawthorn (Crateagus monogyna) is pretty adaptable growing in chalk, clay, sand and loamy soils.

Bare-rooted plants are the cheapest way of buying hedging and usually establish better.

Order now and when you get them give them a good soak for at least an hour before planting; don’t leave bare roots exposed.

If you aren’t able to plant straight away plant them temporarily or ‘heel’ in until you are able to.

Allow 1ft spacing between hawthorn and 2ft for hornbeam.

Water well for the first spring and summer. Stake with canes for the first two years.

Trimming existing hedging

As a cyclist I’ve been holding my breath while riding around the lanes lately as I follow the hedge trimmer, praying not to get a puncture!

I know I can’t really complain as the farmers need to get their hedging trimmed before the birds nest and to stimulate new growth.

If you have just planted some deciduous hedging it is recommended to give it a trim in the winter for the first two years after planting. Remember the base should be wider than the top allowing light to get to the bottom of the hedge.