Fences and hedges carry out many of the same functions – screening for privacy; dividing up a space; defining and securing boundaries. A hedge however does so much more than this.
The hedges Harry Potter knew at Privet Drive were definitely suburban dullsville. But it doesn’t have to be that way.
In this blog I want to show you some of the most aesthetically interesting hedges I’ve seen around Yorkshire; and to explore some of the many reasons why it’s a positive choice to go for a hedge.
1. Yew Sails
Much more than a mere green backdrop, these yew ‘sails’ at York Gate Garden here in Adel are world famous! Reaching skywards they add drama to the whole scene, strongly contrasting with the soft and colourful planting. Nothing suburban dullsville about these!
While a hedge takes some maintenance, it doesn’t have to be clipped as closely as this. The small gaps help many creatures to hide, feed and nest. And enables our hedgehogs to get the vital access they need to their feeding route.
2. Beech Hedging
We planted this large suburban garden in Harrogate several years ago, using beech hedging to divide the space. The result is a garden with more human-sized spaces that feel secluded and relaxing, as well as increased privacy. Far cheaper to install than a fence, aesthetically more pleasing and – as this pic shows – this hedge still functions well as a privacy screen even in the winter, despite not being evergreen. Birds use the hedges almost as sheltered paths across the garden – keeping them safe from the roving neighbourhood sparrowhawk.
With the increasing number of gales and storms in the UK, many of us have been replacing broken fence panels more frequently. A hedge is much more resilient because the wind is filtered through it, and the plant is sturdily anchored by its roots.
3. Malus Hedging
A wide range of shrubs are suitable for hedging – really anything that can grow happily intermingled and closely planted. Here crab apple trees have been used to great effect to define a path in the edibles garden at RHS Harlow Carr and separate it from the nearby raised beds. Not only do the shiny apples remind us of the fecundity of autumn, they are also a great boon to blackbirds and thrushes for winter food.
I also like to use roses; for example Rosa ‘Harlow Carr’ makes a gorgeous low summer hedge since it flowers right down to ground level. A taller rose can be a good security feature too – choose a sturdy bushy type that has big thorns and it will certainly deter burglars! Holly is a good choice for similar reasons.
Since air can more easily circulate around a hedge than a fence, nearby beds benefit from this also, helping reduce viral disease in your plants and bulbs.
4. Grasses
Sometimes we only need the shelter that a hedge offers for a specific area. I love the tall grasses backing this curving seat at RHS Harlow Carr, and they filter the wind too. Sitting there feels sheltered and private, and it’s a great spot to enjoy the soft rustling of the stems around you. I concede that curved fence panels are available – but generally they’re made bespoke and therefore expensive. These grasses quickly grow up each summer and are much cheaper. In winter they have a period of beautiful, tawny, senescence before arising again in spring.
5. Low Box Hedging
A restrained, low hedge such as this traditional box actually dials up the drama along the front terrace at Harewood House. The considered choice of just two contrasting plants creates a strong statement which the tulips on their own just wouldn’t achieve.
6. Tall perennials
Is this a hedge? Well it certainly acts as a “planted boundary or barrier” as my dictionary puts it. This picture was taken at the wondrous garden at the Hepworth Gallery in Wakefield. The tall perennials not only provide a defined edge to the lawn area, but also limit your view, so adding a sense of intrigue and helping you engage with the garden.
Whether made of traditional shrubs or other plants, hedges can make a positive difference to our gardens, wildlife – and pockets.
For further inspiration have a look at our blogs on structure in your garden part one and part two.
Or start a conversation with us about how we can take your garden to the next level – we cover most parts of West and North Yorkshire.