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In a recent article "Landscaping hedges for a dry climate", I outlined the design reasons for growing a finely trimmed hedge. In many garden situations, an informal screen of shrubs is the best design solution, but in circumstances where the hedge has been decided upon as the desired option, it's important to recognize that maintaining it is no easy matter. So here are the principles behind successfully growing a hedge in your garden.
Pruning hedge bushes: When the plants that are to make up the hedge are young, it's vital to give them a light prune now and again, in order to develop dense, compact growth. If say the designated height of the mature hedge is to be 2 meters, then DO NOT wait for the bushes to reach that height before trimming them, rather they should arrive at their final height in stages.
Trimming an established hedge: Here are some crucial points. Trim the sides first before dealing with the top of the hedge. The hedge should taper inwards, meaning that the top should be narrower than the bottom, in order to prevent the higher parts of the hedge shading out the lower ones. Trim slowly in one direction only at a time. It's virtually impossible to trim straight if you clip the sides and the top in one continuous movement.
Watering and feeding: Remember that growing a hedge is highly intensive horticulture. Do not neglect the usual gardening tasks such as watering and feeding. On the contrary, the hedge will require more care than shrubs that are grown as informal screens. The plants should be composted at least once a year, and the application of an additional organic or slow release chemical fertilizer should be considered. Take care not to damage the roots when hoeing in the compost!
Mulching: The spreading of a suitable organic mulch, like wood chippings, is always a good bet for improving the growing conditions for the hedge bushes.
Pest and Diseases: This is more about choosing relatively pest resistant species for the hedge, than anything else. Avoid planting vulnerable plants, in order to keep your pest control regime down to a minimum.
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Author Bio Box: Jonathan Yaakobi
 My name is Jonathan Ya'akobi.
I've been gardening in a professional capacity since 1984.
I am the former head gardener of the Jerusalem Botanical Garden, but now concentrate on building gardens for private home owners.
I also teach horticulture to students on training courses.
I'd love to help you get the very best from your garden,
so you're welcome to visit me on http://www.dryclimategardening.com
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