Planting a mixed Beech hedge really comes down to a matter of taste. Horticulturally, both species will share most soils and situations with the following few exceptions: Unlike the European Beech, Purple Copper Beech will tolerate neither shade nor an acidic soil.
How do you plant a mixed beech hedge?
Beech is best planted at 3 plants per metre, one every 33cms, in a single row to allow sufficient room for the roots to establish, but close enough for a tightly knit hedge to grow quickly. For a stock proof hedge, you would need to plant in a staggered double row, with the rows 40cm apart.
How long does a beech hedge take to establish?
You can expect your beech hedge to grow at an average rate of 30cm to 60cm per year. Don’t worry if your hedge seems sluggish in the first year. This is normal as it will be spending energy establishing its roots. After the first year, you should find that the rate of growth will increase.
Is beech a good hedge?
Allowed to grow to its full potential, beech forms a large majestic tree for spacious gardens. It also makes a fine hedge with bright green leaves that turn burnt orange in autumn. Although deciduous, it usually holds onto the dead leaves when grown as a hedge, so still offers privacy and shelter during winter.
Can you mix beech in a hedge? – Related Questions
What time of year can you plant a beech hedge?
We are often asked this question – from a horticultural point of view the very best time to plant almost all Beech hedge plants (especially bare roots and rootballs) is in late Autumn or early Winter.
What are the disadvantages of beech?
Disadvantages: – It is not suitable for permanent outdoor use because it is not durable when exposed to changes in moisture. It can be heavy because it is so dense and may be difficult to work. Uses: – Kitchen surface tops, indoor chairs, floors, wooden toys, plywood and turned products.
How long does a beech hedge last?
Beech hedging is a resilient and robust hedging type that can easily live for a hundred years without too much care or maintenance.
Is a beech hedge good for privacy?
Beech hedging (Fagus sylvatica) is a beautiful year-round hedge that provides a fantastic alternative to evergreen hedging. Typically, beech hedging should grow by around 30cm per year, making it a perfect privacy hedge for any garden.
Do beech hedges grow quickly?
An established Beech hedge has an average growth rate of around 30-60cm per year but reaches a maximum of 5m plus once mature. This is an average-fast rate of growth compared to other plants.
How far apart do you plant a beech hedge?
Note planting distance in the beech hedge and calculate the number of plants needed. Row planting involves planting between two and four seedlings per metre. Accordingly, for a length of 6 metres you will need between 12 and 24 plants. Planting is often done in a staggered double row.
How many plants do you need for a beech hedge?
Planting a Beech hedge
For bare roots, 3 plants per metre is adequate, 5 is good, 7 plants in a double staggered row makes a dense hedge quicker. Smaller plants are generally planted at higher density than tall plants.
When should you not cut a beech hedge?
To keep them from looking scrappy you should do one major cut back a year at the end of summer and a minor trim to keep them near and tidy in February. It is important not to cut your hedges too early – wait until the late summer. This will allow your beech to keep its recent flush of new leaves over the winter.
Will beech grow in full shade?
Grow green-leaved beech in sun or partial shade. Purple beech colours best in sun, while yellow-leaved forms are better in partial shade as full sun may scorch the foliage.
Do beech trees have invasive roots?
Despite their prolific nut production, many beech trees reproduce from root sprouts (suckers). The root system of a beech is very shallow (with the exception of a large taproot). Lying close to the surface, these roots are susceptible to injury, which stimulates the growth of suckers.
Can I cut beech hedge in October?
After the summer growth spurt, deciduous hedges, like beech and hornbeam, need to be pruned before the leaves change colour and fall. September is the best month to do it.
Do beech trees need a lot of water?
This plant has average water needs. Make sure it gets about 1 inch of water per week through rainfall and/or irrigation. Do not allow water to puddle around the tree, as this can cause root rot. Fully mature American beech trees will tolerate short dry spells, but this is not a tree well suited for a long drought.
Are beech trees good for yards?
Beech trees, part of the Fagus genus, are native to eastern North America and can grow all the way into Texas. They’re known for bringing local wildlife to their branches, thanks to the beechnuts that grow on their limbs, which is why so many people enjoy planting this species of tree in their own yards.