Planting grass, trees, bushes, and flowers is the perfect way to enhance the appearance of any outdoor area. When property owners plant evergreen hedges, they get much more than just beautiful landscaping. A hedge can help reduce street noise, increase personal privacy, and increase property value when the homeowner decides to sell.
One big advantage a hedge has over a wall or fence is cost. It is considerably less expensive than purchasing supplies and hiring a professional to build a wall or a fence. With a little bit of spare time and a few simple gardening tools, almost anyone can tackle this relatively simple home improvement project with satisfactory results.
Planting hedges offers a great way to block views of a yard from the street. Homeowners have more privacy without sacrificing the natural beauty of living plants. If the hedge is a hardy species that grows in thick, it can even keep out stray animals and trespassers.
Total cost will depend on a variety of factors, including what type of plant the homeowner chooses for the hedge. Another factor in determining cost is the size of the plants at the time of purchase. Younger plants will be more affordable, but the homeowner will have to wait longer, perhaps as long as a year or more, to enjoy the full effect of the hedge.
Unlike deciduous species, an evergreen hedge will not drop its foliage when the weather turns cold. This makes evergreens the perfect choice when planting privacy screens or using the plants to block an unattractive view. Evergreen foliage can vary in color and may produce flowers or berries.
Narrow leaf varieties feature leaves that look like needles seen on pine trees. Many varieties have leaves with a blue tint. Not all evergreen varieties have needles. Broadleaf varieties have leaves with a broad surface that may be marked with veins.
A healthy hedge does require some maintenance, but with the proper nutrients, including adequate light and water, it will last for decades. Unlike a fence, homeowners will never have to worry about making repairs, painting or staining. Some species require more frequent pruning, so it is important for consumers to research maintenance requirements so they can choose a species that fits their needs and lifestyle.
Arborvitae is one of the most popular varieties for hedging projects. These plants are vigorous, so they grow quickly and make great screens to block unsightly views. Boxwood is a plant that is easy to work with and can be trimmed into a variety of shapes. The downside to boxwood is the odor, which some people find unpleasant. Consumers who want to add security should consider barberry. Barberry has large leaves and grows barbs that make it impenetrable. This species will also produce berries that attract a wide variety of birds.
Regardless of species, an evergreen hedge will enhance any landscaping project. A qualified horticulturist can provide details about the variety of plants that grow best in the area. Factors to consider include climate and soil type.
