A selection of the best hedge plants

Choose native species

Use native species for the hedge design. They are valuable for the protection of wild animals because they offer food, retreats and breeding grounds. When making your selection, pay attention to the different location requirements in terms of soil, moisture and light. Plant non-toxic hedges so that there is no health risk for children from eating toxic fruits.

Cut hedges

Slowly and densely growing shrubs are suitable for the design of cut hedges. Many species are capable of stick erosion and can tolerate radical pruning measures if necessary. They develop well-branched branches and can be kept very narrow, making these hedges ideal as privacy screens in small spaces.

1. Hornbeam (Carpinus betulus)

This species is undemanding and tolerant of heat and drought. In winter it retains the dead leaves, which is an ideal retreat for birds. The dried up foliage guarantees protection from prying eyes during the cold season.

2. Hawthorn (Crataegus monogyna)

The thorny shrub is an undemanding wood that can be pruned back well. After a total cut, hawthorn sprouts again. The leaves can be attacked by fire blight.

3. Field maple (Acer campestre)

This shade-tolerant species grows as a tree or shrub. It is suitable for any soil and tolerates shady conditions. Due to its rapid growth, it is suitable for the greening of hedge gates or arbours. It should be cut at least twice a year.

4. Spruce (Picea abies)

The evergreen conifer can be used as a Privacy hedge be used. He does not tolerate a total cut back.

Free-growing mixed hedges

A mixed hedge consists of different types of wood, which are staggered in two rows. Plant several specimens of slow-growing shrubs in small groups. Low-growing species should be placed on the edge of the mixed hedge. This hedge shape is a visually appealing privacy screen, the maintenance of which is more complex than that of the uniform cut hedge. When choosing the species, pay attention to flowering times, fruit decorations and autumn colors.

1. Blackthorn (Prunus spinosa)

Sloe is a common name for this undemanding shrub with root runners. It develops dark blue fruits that lose their sour taste after the first frosts. The dense growth offers optimal privacy protection.

2. Mountain ash (Sorbus aucuparia)

The species known as rowan berries is suitable for planting in mixed hedges or cut hedges. It is undemanding and develops red berries that are non-toxic to birds and humans.

3. Wild roses (pink)

Real dog rose (Rosa canina), beagle rose (Rosa pimpinellifolia) and wine rose (Rosa rubiginosa) are among the native rose species that grow on well-drained soils. They are ideal trees for privacy hedges in sunny locations.

4. Cornelian cherry (Cornus mas)

This undemanding shrub prefers warm locations. It grows as a narrow shrub and forms cherry-like fruits that are edible.