When should I plant out bushes?

Question

I have some gaps in my hedge and want to plant some additional bushes to cover them. The hedge is mostly box, with some holly and beech. Any ideas of what I should use to fill the gaps, and when should I plant out?
Thanks

Answer 1

You're best sticking to the types you've already grown - have you got variegated hollies, you can get some very pretty ones? It sounds like a good mix and if you can find some nice thick bushes to plant they'll blend in quickly. If you want another type of plant consider eschalonia which has pretty pink flowers but is still evergreen - small leaves, like box, but faster growing. I suppose you've got to be careful choosing other types of bush as you want to be able to clip them all at the same time, so check carefully for growth rates - hazel and forsythia make good hedges but are not the neat plants you might need.

Plant now! Go on!

If you plant now the roots will get established before it gets too cold and wet. It may be warm still but it shouldn't be so warm that the bushes make new top growth so now's good!
Don't plant if the ground is cold and waterlogged - the roots will rot. If you can't plant now, wait until February or March and hope it isn't too wet.
Happy hedge!

Answer 2

Autumn is the best time to plant because the soil is wet and warm. Container grown plants can be planted at any time but in summer will need to be watered daily. Hedges take a lot of water from the soil so it is sometimes difficult to establish new plants to fill in gaps. I would use box again as it tolerates shade and dry conditions.

Answer 3

Definetly George Bush

Answer 4

I would recommend sticking to the varieties that are already growing in your hedge. As for the planting time, if you wait until December, local nurseries will supply you with bare rooted versions of all of your species, these are cheaper than container grown plants, although container grown can be planted anytime of the year.

Answer 5

winter is useually the best time to move plants as they tend to be more dormant then.

To choose suitable heding for your locality look at your neighbours. or see if there is a local tree warden you could ask.
they often have hedge planting work parties in winter you could get invloved with to pick up tips. If your hedge is a local ammenity they may even help plant yours.

generally more diverse species the better. questions to ask: does it need to be animal proof; evergreen; maintenance; height?

Answer 6

Spring when the soil is warm

Answer 7

the second his term ends