Do dig a planting trench instead of individual plant holes. The spacing will vary with the plant and the purpose of the hedge. It's recommended that small formal hedges be spaced six to eight inches apart. Larger plants can be spaced 18-30 inches. If you want an untrimmed or informal hedge, it's best to put plants in a double row. Stagger the plants 12 inches apart.

Do place your plants in double rows if your hedge is going to be larger than 39 inches. It also will help establish your hedge a little quicker. Overcrowded plants produce the same top growth spread as would more thinly spaced and fewer plants. Planting too close also could give you the problem of amassing deadwood.

Do prepare the hedge line by mapping out where you want it to be. Remember this will be a long-term feature so be sure you put it exactly where you want it. Consider property lines, and ensure your hedge doesn't infringe on your neighbors lawn or driveway. The soil needs to be well drained. If your surrounding area is a place where water gathers, you may want to put drainage coil or field drains to carry the water away from your plants. After digging the soil, two spade depths and one half times the width of the mature hedge. For instance, for a two-foot wide hedge, the trench should be dug to a width of three feet.

Do use a garden line to be sure your hedge is straight. Mark out the hedge line and remember hedges will grow outward so leave enough space for the plant to mature. Place your plants along the garden line and then plant as you would any other tree or shrub. Be sure to plant all of your plants at the same depth. You can do that by using a garden stake for a guide or a shovel handle.

Don't allow your plants to dry out before planting, especially if they are bare-root plants. If you are going to let them set, keep them in the shade and cover them with Hessian.

Don't allow your newly planted hedges to dry out. Water them thoroughly when you plant and water regularly especially during dry periods for up to a year. Your newly planted hedges need to be watered thoroughly even if it looks about to rain.

Don't leave your newly planted hedge without giving it a good quantity of organic matter such as aged manure, and plenty of compost.

Do give then a good covering of mulch to help hold moisture in the soil and give them a good fertilizer with a base of bonemeal, blood, or fish and bonemeal. Do feed them regularly once the hedge is established. The mulch should be made of bark chips or something similar to keep weed growth in check. You won't need to replace it as it rots away because its only role is to help get the plants established after planting.

Don't leave your hedges to their own devices. They grow upwards and become thinner at the top and thicker on the bottom. Pruning is important in the first few years of growth to ensure your plants grow in into a thick and effective hedge. After planting, cut deciduous plants back by one third. Side shoots should also be cut back by one third. Remember that shrubs will make up for being trimmed on the top by sending out side shoots. You need to trim vertical height to promote bushy sideways growth.

Even though you are planting young, small plants, they will overcome larger plants that are planted at the same time. You will be happier with the results after planting small plants in the years to come.

Related posts:

1. The Basics of Planting a Hedge in your Yard
2. Preparing to Plant the Perfect Hedge: What You Need to Know
3. Shaping Up : Secrets to Growing a Healthy Hedge

The best time to plant is in the later autumn or early winter. If you can hold off till then, you really should.

The first thing you need to do is choose a hedge that is right for your needs and climate. Start by deciding exactly what purpose your hedge is going to serve. Are you merely using the hedge to outline your property boundaries or is it serving as a windscreen? Knowing all of this before you shop for shrubs and plants for your hedges will make it easier to narrow down your choices. You also need to be aware of what types of plants are suited to your climate. Your garden center should be able to provide advice in this area.

You also need to determine how much time you have to devote to your hedges. Hedges do require maintenance so you need to choose plants that fit your budget and your schedule. Fast growing plants aren't really the best option for hedges because of the frequent clipping that will be required. It is better to choose slower growing hedge plants that will require much less trimming and maintenance.

To prepare for planting, you want to figure out your layout. Knowing exactly where your hedges are going and the space you want them to take up will also help you determine how many plants or shrubs you'll need to get started.

When selecting material for your hedges, you should also try and go with young plants. Starting with older plants won't really save you any time. Older, more developed plants take longer to establish than new plants and they will not grow as close and dense as younger plants will.

Color is also an issue. Though colorful hedges may seem attractive at first, you may tire of them quickly. It is probably best to go with green hedges and then let the other plants in your garden add touches of color.

You need to map out your hedge line well before you start planting. Remember that your hedges will be there for a very long time, so you want to take your time and do this properly. Start by measuring and laying out your lines using string. This will ensure a straight line. Next you want to start digging. You should dig to one and a half times the width of the mature hedge. For example, you should dig a three-foot bed for a two-foot hedge. You want to add plenty of compost to the soil to provide your new plants with lots of nutrients.

When choosing a spot for your hedges, try to avoid areas where water collects. Bad drainage is not healthy for your hedges so you need to avoid these spots or implement some kind of system to improve the drainage.

Once the beds are dug, you want to layout the plants so you know exactly where each one will go. By doing this, you will ensure that your new hedge has even spacing all the way along. You also want to keep your taunt line in place to check that your plants are straight.

You then plant as you would any tree or shrub. Try using a stake or shovel to ensure that none of the hedge plants are planted too deeply or not deeply enough.

As you work, make sure that the plants don't get too dry. If you are planting your hedge in warm weather, than you might want to try and keep your plants in the shade until the last possible second. You can also put some hessian over top of your plants if sticking to the shade is not an option.

After the hedge plants are in place, you should water them thoroughly and continue to water them well for about a year after planting.

Though it may be tempting to allow your new hedge plants to grow as rapidly and untouched as possible, you want to encourage dense and close growth and this can only happen by cutting them back a third in the first and second year. Not doing this may result in a hedge that is too open at the base.

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2. Long-term Landscaping: Why Choosing the Perfect Hedge is Very Important
3. Hedge Maintenance Nightmares : What you Should Not Plant

Figuring Out Your Boundaries

The first thing you will need to do after deciding to add hedges to your property line is figure out exactly where your lines run. You can do this in several ways. Many people just assume that their lines end at their driveways or where their fences end. The fact is that most property lines are not as simple as that. Many of them are very crooked. Even though your fence ends at a specific point in your back yard, it may slant to the boundary area in the front yard. The best way to be sure you are legally adding to your property is to measure the lines of your property using a plot guide.

If you are completely confused about this issue or would rather not deal with it yourself, you can hire a professional to plot your yard for you. Basically these professionals measure out your property lines and will either flag them or paint your lines on the ground for you. If you think you can handle this job yourself and would rather not spend the extra money to hire someone to do it, you can always visit your city building code office. These offices have copies of all property diagrams. You can obtain a copy of yours, which will include exact measurements from your house. Then taking a tape measure, you can measure and mark the lines yourself.

Choosing a Size

After you know exactly where your property begins and ends, you will need to figure out exactly what sized hedges you want to use. If you want complete privacy from your neighbor, you may want to consider a tall hedge that stays green all year long. A large box hedge is great for this task. This is perfect if you want to keep people from walking through your yard as well.

If you are simply looking for a small way to block off your yard, consider using a shorter hedge. This will still look adorable and keep kids from running through your yard, but you will still be able to see your neighborhood well. This is probably the best option for those simply wanting to add beauty with hedges in their yards.

Planting

After deciding exactly where you want your hedge to go, be sure to plant it a little in front of your boundary lines. Consider how thick and long your specific species of hedge will get when planting. You don't want it to go too much over your property line, especially if you haven't discussed it with your neighbor. Never put it directly on the property line. If you do, and your neighbor complains, you will have to remove the hedge and replant it. This can cause stress to the plant and require unnecessary labor as well.

Maintenance

After planting, when your hedges begin to thrive, be sure to maintain them properly. Chances are that your neighbor will not mind the hedges as long as they are properly taken care of. This may mean that you need to prune them regularly so that they don't spill over into the neighboring property. Be sure to take care and avoid this happening to maintain a positive relationship with your neighbors. Keep in mind however that as long as every part of your hedge stays within your property line, your neighbors can complain all they want. Most cities will allow you to maintain your hedge as you wish, as long as it is on your land.

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2. How to Ensure Hedges Don't Hog your Landscape
3. Planting Privacy with Hedges

Hedges and topiaries go further back than the English. The early Greek society is credited with starting the trend of topiary, the Romans soon adopted the new trend, and symmetrical designs were soon found among the homes of the early Romans. Boxwood shrubs can easily be pruned into well-behaved shapes. They were used to section off parts of the estate and to keep order in the garden and estate lawns. Topiary art, the art of shaping shrubs into animals began during this time. Hedge gardens depended on the beauty of the shape of the hedges, rather than the bloom of bright flowers.

During the Romantic Movement in literature and art, the formal gardens of England with its structured walkways and sharply clipped shrubs and topiaries were softened in tone. This was largely because of the influence of the Romantic artists including Claude Monet. He not only painted beautiful and serene pictures of informal gardens, he also was noted for his beautiful informal garden. Informal gardens continued their popularity but small formal "knot" gardens remained.

Topiary shapes include, squares, circles pyramids and animals. The key to good-looking topiary shapes is they should be perfect. If it isn't perfect, it isn't topiary. One reason Boxwood shrubs are so popular is they are easily cut and sheared into shapes. They are softer than some of their counterparts and when they start to grow out, still hold their original shape and fine flowing lines.

It's recommended that you don't try to take on topiary shapes yourself. It would be just like cutting your own hair. If you aren't a professional or don't have a natural sculpturing talent, then don't try it. If you are going to hire a professional landscaper, be sure that one of their specialties is topiary work. This should be someone trained in shearing the shapes and correctly cutting to the proper height. Don't trust your topiaries to amateurs. Nothing looks worse than a topiary that isn't perfect.

Topiary can be any height, from the huge animals found in "The Shining" to the small neatly clipped hedges that line walkways. The most popular in my part of the world are the hedges that are used between properties to give privacy, or the smaller ones that are found under the windows of many of the homes in my area. I have noticed an increase in

Small topiary shapes in the front of newly erected business buildings. One of the most unusual I have noted is in front of a new insurance office. Two small trees, one on each side of the sign is shaped like those spiral lit Christmas trees that are popular during the holidays. The trees are the same height as the sign and give it an air of elegance and formality.

In some of the newer neighborhoods, I see the trend toward using small topiary hedges along the walk and the driveway to the house. I also see larger trees and shrubs used as privacy fences and windbreakers. In the more historical part of my town, topiary hedges are still widely used to surround picture windows framing them with large bushes on the sides, and smaller hedges trimmed to fit under the window.

If you want round shapes, then start with naturally rounded shrubs. Some of those choices are; arborvitae, hibiscus, boxwood, maple and pear. These are easily shaped and pliable. Other types of free-form plants will resist rounding and squaring. They are beautiful, like the azalea and the star jasmine but not good for topiary shapes.

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Hedges help mark your property boundaries and can be a smart alternative to fences. They can provide shelter to animals and some of those animals will feed on the insects that also call your hedges home. The problem is that some of the animals that inhabit your hedges eat other crops and plants in your garden. Your hedges also provide a safe spot for insects to ride out the long winter and prepare themselves for fresh assaults on your garden come spring. You are not doing yourself any favors by harboring these kinds of creatures. Come spring you may find yourself with a whole host of insect problems in your garden, because you did nothing to prevent or treat an infestation of insects in your hedges.

Here are a few of the pesky pets to be on the watch for in your hedges.

Wasps

While wasp nests can be found in attics and roof spaces, hedges also provide the shelter that they desire. They may not endanger the health of your hedges, but they could be harmful to you and your neighbors so you do want to be vigilant and properly remove active nests from your property with the help of an expert. You can try and lure the insects away and deal with them one on one, but you should never take on an entire active nest single-handed. You will want to call in an expert to get rid of an active nest.

Mites

Mites are part of the phylum Arthoropoda and they have eight legs and two body parts. It may be hard to spot an infestation initially because mites are hardly visible to the human eye. Once the infestation develops, you should be able to see some fine webbing over newer or younger growth on your hedges. You may also notice some yellow mottling on the surface of some leaves and also a change in the texture of your leaves (they will turn thin and papery). You should be more vigilant for mites during the hot summer weather.

Thrips

Thrips feed inside a developing flower bud so they may not pose a huge risk for most of your hedges, but you should be on the lookout for them nevertheless. The damage caused by thrips is often not apparent until the flowers and leaves they have attacked mature and become deformed. Because they are quite mobile, it is hard to control thrips. The adult thrip can fly quite easily from plant to plant.

Aphids

These types of insects live by sucking the juice out of plant tissue. This can have a detrimental effect on your hedges. It is easy to control aphids though. Simply spray some contact spray on the plant and you should be able to rid yourself of these unwanted visitors.

There are some insects that will attack you hedges by biting holes in the leaves. This will leave your hedge looking unattractive and can also endanger the health of your plant. These insects can be controlled through the use of stomach poisons, though again pesticides should be a last, rather than first resort whenever possible.

While the predatory pests may be a concern for your hedges, you should never forget that there are other predators out there looking to rid you of these unwanted visitors. Many of the small mammals that call your hedges home, feed on these insects, so killing them altogether will mean a reduction in food for these animals. On the whole birds and other small animals should keep your pest problem under control. That's not to say that these small animals might not become pests in their own right.

In terms of these pesky pests, you should just be observant. Watch for damage to the stems and leaves : this will be the clearest indication that you have a pest problem. If you do spot a major pest infestation starting, then you should resort to solutions like pesticides to deal with an influx of unwanted pests.

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Pruning is the process by which a plant, hedge or a tree is trimmed or cut so that some stems, branches and limbs are removed. Pruning is done to help shape a plant. It can also be done to redirect the growth of a plant, hedge or tree. Pruning is also necessary to remove dead or injured stems, branches and limbs.

Pruning tools fall into three separate categories. First there are pruning shears. These tools are the most commonly used pruning tools. Pruning shears can be used to trim shrubs and flowers. The can also cut through soft wood up to a thickness of 3/4 inch so they can be used to trim smaller growth on trees.

The other two types of cutting tools for pruning are loppers and saws. A lopper has a longer handle than gardening shears. It is a two-handed clipper that has a curved blade. Loppers are used for trimming and pruning small trees. Finally, you can use a garden saw for some of your pruning. These handled blades are useful in removing branches. Garden saws come in different sizes so you might even consider having a couple of different ones on hand.

It's important that you use the right one of these tools for your specific pruning needs. If you use a tool that is too small for a job, you will end with a limb that looks like it has been mangled. On the other hand, if you use a tool that is too big for a job, you may end with another kind of mess : a massacre where you only intended a tiny trim. You also want to make sure that you keep your tool sharp and clean to prevent torn or ragged edges.

There is quite a range of tools on the market and all of them vary greatly in price. As with most things, you get what you pay for. The most expensive pruning tools have replaceable parts so you can merely purchase a new blade if yours becomes too dull. If you know you'll be doing a lot of pruning, you'll want to spend the money at the start and invest in good quality cutting tools that will last for years. If you have little pruning to do, then a less expensive pair will probably get the job done.

When purchasing a pruning tool, the first thing to look at is the blade. You want high quality steel : cheaper models will have blades that won't stand up over the long haul. You also want to make sure that the blades come together smoothly.

There are some teflon-coated blades on the market. They claim that these blades will cut through the wood more smoothly, but many people don't notice a great deal of difference. You'll need to decide whether or not you want to go with coated or non-coated blades.

Take the time to examine any tool you are considering closely. If you do a bit of shopping around and put the effort into research, you'll end up with a much better tool.

Safety is the key when doing any pruning in your garden. You should wear gloves and also safety goggles when doing any trimming overhead.

To ensure the longevity of your pruning tools there are a few things you can do. Remember to clean your tools regularly. It is all too easy to transfer disease from plant to plant if you don't take the time to wipe down the blade before moving on. You also need to oil your clippers. You should also make sure your tools remain sharp. There is special equipment you can buy to sharpen your shears, but you might want to have them professionally sharpened or purchase a higher-end tool with replaceable blades. You should make sure you are storing your pruning tools in a dry place, especially through the winter months to prevent rusting.

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Some beautiful plants can be clipped into hedges and screens. Flowering or foliage color, which fits best into your landscape plans for your lawn? You can choose hedge plants that will range from two to three feet tall, all the way up to 20 feet. You will want to choose plants that will give you the desired effect or appearance, fit in the space available and adapts to sun or shade. Several types of shrubs can be mixed to form a hedge with various flowering plants. We're going to look at the five best plants for free-flowing hedges. Following are some recommendations for beautiful hedges made of hedge plants. Forsythia, Lilac, Spirea, Barberry, and Azaleas are among the top five.

Forsythia bushes are one of the first signs of spring. They are a deciduous shrub and blossom in the early spring. They are fast growing shrubs that have an upright and arching form. They have beautiful, vibrant yellow flowers and herald the coming of spring. Forsythia plants grow best in full sun and a well-drained soil. They are beautifully decorative and are often used as a living wall for summer and fall. Forsythia bushes are also used for erosion control on slopes. Walking in my neighborhood I see the beautiful yellow flowers and know that spring is here. Pruning is not compulsory and the plant can go several years without pruning. The best time to prune is just after their flowering in the spring. Prune to 1/3 of the oldest branches right down to the ground. This encourages new growth in your plant. Annual pruning is not mandatory but if you choose to prune, after flowering is the best time as it is easier to tell which the newest branches are. Only the older branches will have had blooms.

Lilac Bushes are my favorite flowering bushes to see in the spring. I love the soft scent it puts out and have one growing right beside my deck and the swing I like to set in. These are also deciduous shrubs and heights vary, but the most common reaches a height of about six feet. Wedgwood blue and soft purple are the primary colors in rich thick clusters. They bloom in late spring and are said to have the most unforgettable aroma in the world. The leaves are dark green, but lilacs are planted for their flowers and aroma and not their foliage. Lilac bushes prefer full sun and a rich well-drained soil. The soil should also have a neutral pH. Pruning should be done after blooming for good air circulation and cut dead flowers off when they are done blooming. This will promote even more flowering the following year. I think nothing beats the sweet smell of lilacs in the spring.

Spirea is another choice for free-flowing shrubs. It can range in size from two foot to six foot; one of the most popular is the Japanese Spirea. Leaf colors range from chartreuse, blue-green, bronze, red, orange and burgundy. It produces clusters of pink flowers that are at the tips of wiry branches. The Japanese Spirea leaves will turn either a beautiful red or rusty gold in the fall. This kind of Spirea will grow in almost any soil including soil that is more alkaline. Spirea will grow in partial shade but full sun will promote better flowering and better leaf color. It does best in climates that have distinct winters, which makes it a good choice for the Midwest.

Barberry shrub variations are many. Japanese barberry is a hardy shrub with thorns and beautiful yellow flowers. It can grow to about nine feet in height and spread up to eight feet. Flowering begins in mid April and continues to flower through the winter. Barberries will grow both in full sun or partial shade and in most any soil type. Pruning is needed to keep it in good shape and should be done immediately after it flowers or in later winter. Both male and female plants should be kept together to produce ornamental berries.

Azalea is another popular flowering shrub. They're over 800 species with over 10,000 named varieties. They have brilliant colors such as white, pink, opal, red, watermelon pink, snow-white, orchid, and lavender. Azaleas need to be fed regularly for maximum growth. Immediately after blooming, again June 1, again in August and the middle of September is the best time to fertilize.

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hedge location

intended purpose of the hedge

The following paragraphs will discuss why size matters in creating the perfect hedge, and what sizes are appropriate with different aspects figured in.

First, if your hedges are located close to your home, you may want to cut them smaller to create the perfect hedge. When located on the corner of the house, it is generally okay to allow the hedges to become a little bigger. But in order to prevent your hedges from blocking the views from your windows, and preventing them from growing taller than your home, hedges near your house generally should be of the smaller variety, such as dwarf hedges. Imagine peering out your kitchen window to see you children playing outside, only to be looking smack dab into an overgrown hedge. Size matters in creating the perfect hedge since if you leave hedges located in a certain spot without maintaining it and let it grow too large; it will not be the perfect hedge.

Next, since size matters in creating the perfect hedge, you should consider the plants around the hedges when deciding the perfect hedge size. Some important questions to ask your self will include:

How tall can the hedge safely grow without blocking the sun from the other plants? Will the hedge block a wanted view?

How wide can the hedge safely grow without blocking your view of the other plants? Will the hedge grow out onto a path or driveway?

How far should I trim my hedges back from the edge of my landscape bed for best visual appearance?

Since size matters in creating the perfect hedge, you should never allow your hedge to grow so tall that it blocks the sun from your other flowers and plants. If you'd like larger hedges, but the ones you currently have are blocking the sun from the other plants in your landscape bed, you may want to consider another location in your yard for the hedges. A place where they can freely grow, without hampering the growth of other flowers and plants will be the ideal spot for your hedge.

This same concept falls into place when questioning the width of a perfect hedge. If the width of your hedge is so wide that it blocks your other flowers and plants from view, the hedge is then considered too wide. If you wish to have wide hedges, you could consider a different location in your yard for the hedge, where it can grow wide without blocking your view of your other flowers and plants. The same is true of hedges that are too tall.

On the other hand, if your hedges are not located near your house, or in your flower beds, the perfect size could be larger. People often use hedges to serve as:

property line markers

privacy fences

sound barriers

When being used to serve these purposes, and those like them, hedges should be allowed to grow tall. No other flowers or plants should be planted near the hedges, and they will be free to grow as tall and as wide as you would want, or need them to be. Hedges that are at least 6 feet tall make great privacy fences, while thicker hedges will help soften the sound of passing cars or loud neighbors. When hedges are planted in parts of your yard away from your house, you will not have to worry about large hedges taking over your home, or blocking the view from your windows.

Size matters in creating the perfect hedge. If your hedge is too big, it could cause inconveniences and headaches, and if it is too small, it won't serve well as a privacy barrier. Make sure to ask yourself a few questions before planting your hedges. This can help prevent some of these problems, as well as following some hedge trimming tips. Location is everything when it comes to the perfect hedge size.

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The first is the Canadian hemlock; it's classified as a tree and plant type as evergreen. They have a moderate growth rate and do well in full sun, partial sun, and shade. The botanical name for it is Tsuga canadensis. They can be grown in zones 4, 5, 6, and 7. At their maturity, they can stand 30 to 50 feet tall. To make a good hedge, they need to be planted about four foot apart in a row. Canadian hemlocks are soft and have a pyramid shape with a tapering trunk. It's a beautiful conifer, makes a great hedge, and is an excellent choice for moist, well drained, and sandy soils. The Canadian hemlock has graceful foliage and can be used as a stand-alone tree or as hedge or windbreak. It's best if they are transplanted when the plants are four years old.

The Norway spruce is another popular conifer for use as hedges and windbreaks. They are found throughout much of the United States and Canada. They adapt easily to low moisture and various soil types. They have a fast growth rate, classified as a tree and are consider an Evergreen plant type. They are good for planting in zones 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, and 7. At maturity, they will grow to a height of 50 to 75 feet. When they are first planted, they are approximately 10-16". This conifer has branches that grow densely into one another. They are good for windbreaks and should be planted 6 feet apart to be used in that way. As the tree matures, the side branches become horizontal and begin turning up at the tip. The secondary branches hang down from the main branches making it an attractive ornamental tree with graceful flowing branches.

The Douglas fir is a versatile and popular tree. It can and is used as a Christmas tree, it also is popular as a windbreak tree, and it can be sheared to form a beautiful hedge. The mature shape is in the shape of a pyramid and it will grow to a height of 50-60 feet high. It spreads naturally outward 20-30 feet. The Douglas fir needs full sun and is adaptable to a wide variety of soil types and moisture content. You can plant Douglas firs in loam, clay, and sandy soil and it will still grow well. The trees are a beautiful blue green color and remain that color all year long. It can be planted in zones 3-6. The botanical name for the Douglas fir is Pseudotsuga menziessi glauca. Douglas fir, Douglas, Oregon pine, yellow or red spruce and interior fir are the names it is known by most commonly. The needles are flat with a pointed tip and the needles appear to stand out around the main twig. The Douglas fir also produces cones that turn from green to gray as they mature.

The bark on the Douglas fir is smooth, with a gray-brown color. It has resin-filled blisters when the plants are young and after the tree has aged the bark becomes deeply grooved.

Many animals use the Douglas fir as a source of food. Squirrels, chipmunks, mice, winter wrens, and crossbills eat the fir seeds. Bears will scrape off the bark to reach and eat the layer of sap on the layer beneath the bark. The tree is also highly valued because of its dense wood. It is hard, stiff, and durable. The wood makes it perfect for heavy construction such as trestles, bridge parts, piers, and commercial buildings.

When you choose the trees you want on your property, investigate thoroughly and your local extension office is a good source of information. You need to be sure the trees you choose are good for you climate zone and for your soil conditions.

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When Should I Trim?

In general, most hedges should be trimmed in late spring or late fall. These are great times to trim because they are when new sprouts will have shown up. You can essentially trim at any time of year. Most landscapers would probably tell you to stay away from winter trimmings unless you are completely cutting back the hedge. If this is the case, you can cut it back in late winter so new growth can begin and be present in the spring and summer. Some species are more particular than others about when to trim, so asking your local expert may help.

What Should I Trim?

If you are only trying to maintenance your hedge, you will need to concentrate on a few things. First, if there are any branches or areas of dead plant, you should remove them. This may mean only removing a few stems or needing to remove an entire chunk. Be careful when removing large areas of the hedge however, because you will not want to take more than necessary. Secondly, you will probably want to keep with your original shape of the hedge and remove any new growth that does not fit into the shape. You can do this with hand trimmers for the best results.

If you are planning to completely shape the hedge, be sure to do so slowly. Begin with one area at a time. Step back frequently to check your work and reexamine the direction in which you are trying to go. Consider training your hedge to grow in the manner you want it to grow before shaping. Young hedges can be trained to grow upward by trimming them laterally.

How Often Should I Trim?

Most hedges will require only one trimming per year. It all depends on the species of hedge you have however. Some hedges will require once a month trimmings. This is typically because these varieties are fast growing. When you plant a fast growing hedge, new growth will appear frequently, which will cause the need for more trimming. If you have a normal hedge that has growth showing a few times a year, only trim when necessary. If you trim your hedge more than necessary you will see that you can stunt its growth and cause it to look very unhealthy.

What Do I Need For Trimming?

There are basic tools you can use to trim your hedges. If you prefer to trim manually, you can purchase hedge trimmer. Make sure they are an appropriate size for your hedge. If you are pruning lightly, use smaller trimmers for better accuracy. If you are trimming large hedges, you may want to use larger trimmers. You can also purchase an electric or gas powered trimmer for large jobs. These trimmers can make the job quick and easy. Remember to wear the proper protective items as well. Gloves and safety goggles are recommended when trimming. While they may not seem necessary, they will ensure your safety from flying branches and sprouts.

What Tips Do You Have?

If you simply want to ask your landscaper for general tips, he or she may spill the beans about these things. First, if you want to train your hedge to grow upward, simply trim the side of the hedge and keep the top level. This is a great tip that many novice trimmers are unaware of. Second, if you want a thick hedge, be sure to trim with the direction of growth. For instance, make sure you clip in the same direction the branches are growing. This will discourage damage to the healthy areas.

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If you want to avoid hedge maintenance nightmares, you should first research different types of hedges. When doing research consider how often each species needs to be pruned. If a species needs to be pruned often, you may not want to plant it. Look for those that are basically maintenance-free. These varieties may need to be pruned once a year and some may be able to thrive without any pruning at all. When you forgo pruning you may end up with a more erratic style, but if you are against maintenance altogether, these will work for you.

Another thing you should definitely look at when researching is the height of the hedge at its mature age. This will also be important when trying to think of the location in which you want to plant your hedge. If you choose a hedge that gets too tall for the area, it may become a maintenance nightmare. For instance, if you plant a hedge right under a power line and you don't know it will grow over 20 feet tall, you could find yourself trimming it more often than you'd like. Never plant hedges that will grow very tall under any type of wire or roofing. You will only be creating a hazard and stress for yourself later.

When considering height, remember to also consider width and other growth patterns. You can find hedges that like to grow strait upward or you can find those that like to sprawl horizontally as well. If you don't consider these things however, you could end up with a hedge that wants to overtake other plants in your yard, your fence, or your neighbor's property as well. If these things happen, you will likely be in a hedge maintenance nightmare trying to constantly keep your hedge exactly where it needs to be. Never plant a hedge too close to your neighbor's property without asking their opinion first. If they are willing to allow the hedge to grow as it wishes you won't have to worry about as much maintenance. However if they are picky about the issue, you may want to avoid all stress and plant a different variety or choose another location.

Remember as well that some hedges don't tolerate pruning very well. Many conifers like Leyland and Lawson's cypress are included in this grouping. Be sure you know exactly what your hedge likes, so you don't ruin a beautiful plant. If you are unsure about these things, just research on the web or ask the specialist at your local nursery.

Overall, if you are looking for a hedge that does not require much maintenance, you need to look for those varieties that are slow growing and only require up to one pruning per year. If you accidentally purchase a fast growing hedge you will find yourself pruning about once a month, which may be a nightmare in itself. Decide how much time you want to devote to your hedge and choose accordingly. Some people may think three prune sessions a year is a nightmare while others may be able to tolerate that amount well. Remember, where you plant a hedge has a lot to do with how well you enjoy its beauty and functionality. If you choose a spot that is inappropriate you may find yourself stuck with a hedge that is killing the roots of other plants or bothering your neighbor. Just be sure not to choose something that gets too tall, too wide, or needs pruning too often and you will be fine.

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Experts would tell you that there are certain species of hedges that work best with ornamental hedging. Although you can try to work with any type of hedge, these varieties are easiest to work with and maintain. Chamaecyparis, Artemisia, Azara, Berberis, Buxus, Caryopteris, Cassinia, Cephalotaxus, Chaenomeles, Corylus, and Cotoneaster are all recommended types of hedges to use when participating in ornamental hedging.

Although some may feel this type of sculpting is best when the whole world can see it, you can put these works of art almost anywhere. One thing you should consider when planning where to place your ornamental hedging is the style of the hedging. If you are trying a more traditional hedging style such as boxed hedging or a sculpted wall design, you can put it almost anywhere. These types of hedging are elegant and can even be used in the front yard without taking away from your home's elegance.

If you are more interested in causal shapes for sculpting, you may want to limit them to your backyard or garden area. Many people love to include fun shapes or hedges in shapes of animals in their yard dcor. While these things are interesting and fun to look at, you may want to think about whether or not you want them to be the first thing guests see when they arrive to your home. While the more modern shapes works for some people, if you are more traditional in style, you will want to keep them at the minimum.

The best way to get the most professional results in ornamental hedging is to hire a professional. There are professionals that specialize in topiary and ornamental hedging. They have been trained to work in these forms of art. There are people however who would rather try this task themselves. If this is the case, you should strongly consider taking a class on the art form. Many local community colleges will offer topiary classes from time to time for small fees. You can also check with your local expert or nursery to get contacts for instruction.

One great thing to think about is starting small. Many people will go at their largest hedge with clippers. Choosing to attack the largest hedge in your yard can end in total disaster. If you take it too far, the hedge must be replaced. Instead of taking the risk with these results, you can start a little smaller. Consider buying a small, inexpensive hedge that you can work on inside. You can also work on it outdoors, if the weather permits. Try different approaches on this "tester" hedge before moving on to something larger. Once you have mastered the smaller hedge, you can try to move on to more permanent hedges in your yard.

If you enjoy looking at sculpted hedges, you can also visit gardens such as Green Animals, a topiary garden in Rhode Island. Some of the world's most talented artists have worked building and maintaining sculptures in parks such as these. They are perfect places to take your family or to enjoy a relaxing picnic on your own. No matter what the reason, they are amazing places to get inspiration for your own ornamental hedging project at your home. Pay attention to details and how each hedge is constructed to get the best ideas and put them to use at home.

Remember, before beginning to sculpt you should always develop a plan. Make sure the plan includes practicing or perhaps taking a class or two. There is nothing worse than ruining an old hedge because you did not take the time to plan and research ahead. Once you have all of the information you need however, you can create beautiful art work that will add nicely to your home.

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Property Location

When choosing a hedge species, be sure the first thing you note is what areas the hedge grows best within. Most plants will have the areas marked off by "zone". Located your zone and see which species to begin with. Most hedges are very hardy and will thrive in almost any location, even during the winter months. If you live in a location that experiences harsh and extreme winters or summers however, you may want to take care in choosing an appropriate species for your property. Choosing the right species of hedge for your property location is a key to growing a healthy hedge. If you choose an inappropriate species, it could be more difficult to deal with or even die after the first year.

Planting Area

The next secret to growing a healthy hedge involves picking a great planting area. There may be an area you have in mind before you even choose a species. This is fine but you should note the amount of sun the spot gets before choosing a species. If you have already chosen your hedge plant but are unsure of where it should go, consider a few things. First, be sure that the area you choose is large enough to handle the hedge once it reaches maturity. You will not want to plant a really tall hedge beneath an electrical line for instance. You will also want to make sure other plants that may be around the hedge will have plenty of room to continuing their growth as well. Hedges can quickly take over other plants around them.

How to Plant

Once you have the perfect plant and the most appropriate spot, you are ready to plant your hedge. One secret, that few planters know, is that a hedge should only be planted a few inches underground. You should always allow a sufficient amount of room on each side of the plant, but the depth of your hold should only be a few inches deep. Make sure it is deep enough to house the entire root system however. Hedges grow best when they get more air from above the ground. Again, the most important thing to remember is to give the plant as much room as needed for the root system to expand.

Aftercare

After planting your hedge, give it a little drink of water. After this initial water, you really don't need to do much to maintain your new plant. If you are planting in a dry season, you may want to water it a bit for the first week or so. Once the season stabilizes however your plant will be able to thrive on rainwater alone. As far as pruning goes, it is really up to you with most species. If you want a more formal hedge, you can prune it accordingly. If you like a more natural look, leave your hedge to grow as it wishes. Remember however that some species require more pruning than others. So take note when purchasing your plant.

Choosing and planting a hedge is really a very simple task. You cannot go wrong with hedges on your property. They add beauty, protection, and are perfect for attracting local wildlife to your yard. They are much more attractive than fences and can work in the same manner. The benefits are numerous and you will see them almost immediately. Just use these secrets when completing your task and you will have a healthy and lovely hedge that all of your neighbors will admire.

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One of the main reasons consumers purchase dwarf hedges is because they are perfect for small areas. If you want to add substance to your landscaping but already have a lot of the area planted, you can do so with short shrubs. Typically the dwarf variety will only grow to be a few feet high. Many other varieties of shrubs and hedges will grow to be around twenty feet high. You can add them in with your existing landscape to provide an updated look without being too fussy with your style. These petite hedges can be used in the same way their taller counterparts can be used. They are only on a smaller scale.

One popular use for a dwarf shrub is in the front of a home. If you have low windows that you would like to place landscaping in front of, you can use these without worry. They will not grow so big that they will cover the entire window. They may however grow just enough to provide extra shading and added curb appeal. You can use them along the sides of your home as well. Any place in which you don't want a tall hedge, a dwarf hedge can be used instead.

A great thing about dwarf hedges is that they come in lovely varieties, some of which are very pretty to view. One type, the ninebark dwarf, is among the most popular species. Like all other dwarf shrubs, it is small and can be used anywhere in your yard. It has small green foliage and contains small white flowers in the spring. One interesting thing about this type of shrub is that its bark peels in the winter. This hardy shrub loves full to partial sun and will grow almost anywhere. Small birds love it for its protection and you will love it for its cute flowers and hardy attitude.

The dwarf blue leaf Arctic willow is also a very popular option in this short variety. It is probably so popular because it grows extremely fast compared to others. This type of hedge will grow even in the wettest soil conditions, which makes it perfect for marshy or wetland areas. The stems are skinny and will gracefully sway in the wind. The hedge gets its name due to its bluish green coloring.

If you want to add a little "wall" to your home, dwarf shrubs are perfect for this task. You can use them like full sized shrubs and create a barrier between your property line and your neighbor's. Of course, they won't grow as tall as the regular variety, but they will be just as beautiful. Just like their taller versions, dwarf hedges require very little maintenance. They do need to be planted with plenty of room for their roots to grow. They should be planted only a few inches into the soil however. Just like regular hedges, they do not require extra watering and will thrive on rainwater. They do need to be pruned occasionally, especially if you want them to maintain a specific shape.

Another great way to use these petite hedges is to build them around an existing flower garden. You can enclose any garden with these hedges to offer a more private and professional look to your yard. Place a lovely sitting bench in the middle and you will feel like you have your own secret garden. Dwarf hedges are also a great way to attract small wildlife to your yard. Although they will not bring in the amount of wildlife the larger hedges will, you will still see an increase in bird activity and other small wildlife activity in your yard when you use these lovely little hedges. Overall, if you are looking for a way to add the appeal of hedges to your home, but would rather work on a smaller scale, dwarf shrubs are the best way to go.

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Barberries are a popular choice for hedges and here are a few tips to their care. Pruning should be kept to a minimum. Recommendation is two times a year. They grow best in partial sun and prefer poor soil. They will bear more fruit if they are grown in poor soil. They can be easily trimmed and shaped into a lovely hedge. Barberries are sensitive to salt and solid fertilizers can kill the plant.

Pruning is started immediately after planting and recommended you prune the plant by at least one third and it can be trimmed to half its planting size. This will help new growth from the base of the plant. Once your plant has grown to the height you want it, then pruning is only necessary to keep it looking neat. Use sharp hedging shears, or electric hedge trimmers. It's also helpful to use a string line to help you keep your hedge even.

Training a hedge begins early. Some people allow the hedge to grow too tall before they start pruning. Every time your plant has a new growth of 12 inches, you should prune it back about six inches. The sides of the hedges should also be trimmed. Never let the top of the hedge to become wider than the base. If tops are left wide, they shade out the lower branches and they can become weak. Snow buildups are also less of a problem when the tops are narrower. Hedges can be trimmed either straight across, or softly rounded.

Narrow-leaved evergreens need slightly less pruning. Fine twigged plants such as arborvitae, hemlock, and yews need to be trimmed heavily. Pines, spruces, and firs should have their buds or new shoots at the tip of the branch broken off each year. Then they can be shamed into their formal shape with a pair of pruning shears.

Cutting your hedge plants back when your first plant them will encourage branching and denser growth. This will make for a beautiful full hedge. As the hedges age, they can be cut back by smaller amounts each year. When they have reached the height you want them to be, you only need to keep trimmed to look neat. Don't forget to use a plum line so you can keep your hedge straight.

What happens when you move into a new home and the hedges have not been properly cared for? There are ways to rejuvenate hedges. If they aren't badly overgrown, you can cut back the sides and tops to six inches below the height you want your hedge to be. This minor cutback lets a new growth begin, which can then be pruned and trimmed into the shape you want.

If the hedge is overgrown, you can cut back some plants to within 6-12 inches of the ground. Don't just assume that you can do this to all shrubs. Ripping out the entire hedge and planting new plants can only repair some shrubs.

Two of the more popular types of plants for forming formal hedges are the Boxwood and the Privet. Both are excellent choices for the straight lines that are needed in a formal hedge.

Privet hedges grow quickly and are more easily shaped than boxwood shrubs. Privet hedges will tolerate the heavy pruning that is needed to shape the shrubs into formal hedges. Privet shrubs will reach a height of 4 to 15 feet. In late spring and early summer, they produce white flowers, when the flowers are done blooming then berries appear. Privet hedges prefer partial shade and a moist soil. They are not troubled by smog and pollution that can hurt plants in urban settings.

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In the past, when homes were built, hedges were automatically installed in various locations throughout the yard. They can still be found thriving on older homes. Newer homes however are built quickly and cheaply and hedges are rarely included. The great thing about hedges is that unlike flowers, most of them will offer continuous beauty, even in the winter months. They can be added to the front, side, or rear of a home. They can also be added to the sides of a driveway in order to offer a more elegant and classic look. Just be sure, if you do choose to add them to the sides of a driveway that they give your car doors enough clearance to open completely.

Choosing a species of hedge can be important as well. Most hedge species will thrive in any area that has full or partial sun. Several varieties will not grow well in the shade however. If you have a shady area where you want to add hedges, be sure to choose a species that does well in shade. They are available, so visit your local garden center to choose the proper type before planting.

Once you do decide what type and where you want your hedges to go, planting will be a breeze. Simply dig a hole that is large enough for the entire root system. This may mean that your hole is larger than you would expect. The root system of a hedge needs room in which to thrive, so keep that in mind while digging. The hole however does not need to be incredibly deep. It should be wide enough for the hedge and its root system, but allow the hedge to sit no more than a few inches underground after planted. Hedges do best when they are able to take in more air and planting them too deep will not allow them to do so. After the hedge is placed and the dirt is replaced, give the plant a good drink of water.

Choosing where to put your hedges is probably the most difficult thing you will face regarding these plants. They are otherwise very simply to plant and care for. You basically plant them and allow them to thrive on their own. There is no extra watering needed for most hedges. They simply adapt to their environment and take in the rainwater nature provides. Occasionally you may want to prune your hedges. When pruning, consider these things: you should always prune in small amounts. If you go overboard and prune large amounts, you will likely be unhappy with the results. Prune a little area and then step back to examine your work. Continue at this pace until you are satisfied with the hedge.

Although you can plant hedges at any time, the preferred planting time is early spring. This will give your hedge and its root system a substantial amount of time to stabilize before the next winter season. Gardeners will also tell you that different types of hedges should be pruned at different times of the year. For instance, some hedge species should be pruned in late winter while others should be pruned in the spring. If you are interested in your specific hedge species and when to prune, visit your local nursery for information.

Overall, hedges are the perfect way to add simple elegance to your home's outdoor areas. They need very little care, meaning you can enjoy their beauty without having to slave over them each week. If you love a nice landscaped look, but have no time to devote to gardening, hedges are the perfect option for you. So, visit your city nursery and begin choosing the hedges that will transform your home today.

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The soil for your hedgerow should be well prepared and marked. This will be a long-term investment both in money and energy, so planning is a big part. Your soil should be well drained. If it isn't, then drainage coils or tiles should be installed to let the moisture drain around your hedge.

Plant in double rows and staggered for better coverage and quicker growing time. Don't overcrowd your plants. Overcrowded plants produce the same amount of top growth between them. You can plant more thinly with fewer plants giving the same amount of coverage. Overcrowding also causes a build-up of deadwood around the bottom of your shrubs.

Use a garden line to set up your hedges. Using the "eyeball" measure just doesn't result in having good hedge lines. It's preferable if you dig a trench rather than individual holes, so you can keep the plants at the same depth. After your trench has been dug, lay out your plants where they need to go so you are sure they will be equally spaced. Plant spacing is important and will vary with the hedge you want and what purpose it is for. Small, formal hedges need the plants to be spaced between 6-8 inches apart. Larger free-flowing shrubs should be planted between 18-30 inches apart and larger trees to be used for windscreens should be spaced about six feet apart.

After planting, you should use a good fertilizer with natural compost. Water well, and keep watered especially through dry spells for at least a year. To keep the moisture around the plants, place wood bark mulch around them. As they grow, and the mulch begins to rot, there isn't any need to replace it. The mulch is mostly used for keeping the moisture around the plants when they are young and tender.

Planting should be done in late autumn and winter. Important items to remember, small plants establish quickly, and colorful hedges make a design statement. Remember, you have to live with these plants for a longtime, be sure that a stark green hedge is what you want, or a hedge that is constantly changing colors. You may tire of the hedges that are different colors, so think of your choices before you buy the plants for your hedge.

Something else to consider is if you want a formal or more informal look in your landscape. Different shrubs are better for hedges that are more formal and need to be trimmed more often to keep them looking neat. Regular weeding will encourage good growth in the early years and will decrease competition for moisture and nutrients in the soil. Your hedge will be greedy; it will need plenty of nutrients so your local nursery can recommend a general all-purpose fertilizer. Be sure to not overfeed, or scorch the stem or roots of your shrubs and read the labels on the fertilizer containers carefully before using.

With proper care and pruning, a hedge can be a wonderful asset to your landscape. Don't allow them to get too tall before trimming. One of the biggest mistakes you can make with your hedge is to let it grow too tall before trimming. If this happens, you need to trim in stages so your hedges will remain healthy. When plants are allowed to grow too tall, it causes the bottom to be shaded out. It becomes weak with leggy sprigs growing in complete disorder. As a rule, you should prune back six inches every time the hedge has grown 12 inches.

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Bonica Rose

The Bonica Rose has nationally been named the world's favorite rose in the past. This beautiful plant is so popular because it looks wonderful and also provides the benefits of a hedge. The species is very easy to grow, making it a favorite of gardeners of all skill levels. The hedge is also very hardy and rarely gets diseased. Although they are not overwhelmingly fragrant, the species does put off a soft scent. With bright pink blooms, this hedge is likely to stay on the top of many "best" lists for years to come.

Spiraeas

If you want to enjoy the beauty of your hedge, but are also interested in attracting wildlife to your area, try the Spiraeas. This lovely hedge is great for attracting butterflies. They love the varying colors of the hedge, which range from white to yellow and pink. The blooms are indeed lovely and the true attracting point for butterflies, however they are only slightly fragrant. The butterflies love them most because the blooms will start to appear in June and continue to come and go throughout the entire summer. Although these types of flowering hedges are some of the most gorgeous, they do not get very tall. The average height for a mature Spiraeas hedge is between two and four feet.

Texas Scarlet Flowering Quince

If you are looking for a lovely early blooming hedge, the Texas Scarlet Flowering Quince is what you need. This hedge will always be one of the first to bloom in your yard. The interesting thing about this plant is that bright red blooms appear first, followed by green foliage. Another great aspect is that they bear apple-like fruit, which tends to attract local wildlife. These hardy plants are lovely to see and add brightness to your yard at the beginning of blooming season. They are the perfect way to get things started.

Burning Bush

One of the most popular and familiar varieties of flowering hedges is the Burning Bush. This bush, named properly for its red color, is a great choice for any yard or property. The fun thing about the Burning Bush is that it changes color through the seasons. In the summer, the Burning Bush is dark green. In the fall, the bush is crimson. The Burning Bush is one of the easiest hedges to grow. It spreads quickly and can thrive almost anywhere. You can find these hedges in regular and dwarf varieties, making them as versatile as ever.

Rose Of Sharon

Last, but definitely not least, is the Rose of Sharon. This amazing hedge can provide excellent coverage for your property while adding beauty at the same time. The Rose of Sharon begins to blooms its wonderful double blooms in August. The blooms can be red, white, blue, or pink. The blooms are such a welcome in late summer and early fall because so many plants will have already bloomed by this point. The Rose of Sharon may be one of the only bloomers in your yard at this time. This hedge can grow to be 8 feet tall and works well in both sunny and partial shaded areas.

If you are looking to add flowing hedges to your home, strongly consider these flowering varieties. They are among the most beautiful hedges available and will not only provide all of the same benefits of a traditional hedge, but will also provide color and beauty for you and your family to enjoy. So, check out these five favorites and see which one suits your tastes and the style of your yard the best! Once you see the results of adding them to your property, you will likely want to add more each year.

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A hedge is an excellent way to mark the boundaries of your property and a much more attractive option than some wood or chain fencing. Hedges can also be used to shelter outdoor spaces from the wind and to give your yard some privacy. Hedges also give your garden structure and work well as natural dividers. The uses, as you can see, are many.

When you first think about planting, you need to assess your needs. Is your hedge merely decorative or is it also going to be serving a practical purpose? Once you decide on that, you can work on your garden plan.

It is important to carefully plan out your garden before you begin planting. Hedges will be with you for decades or even longer if you care for them properly, so you need to think about the best place to situate them. Remember that hedges do grow and widen over the years so you want to ensure that you have enough space for that to occur. This can be a big problem near paths and driveways so measure carefully and ensure you have enough room for this growth.

You also need to choose a variety of hedge that suits your climate and the overall look you are going for. As with all plants, there are some hedge plants more suited to certain climates than others. You need to determine what types of hedge plants will thrive in your climate. Your local garden center should be able to offer you advice on this. There are also many good online resources now to help you research all sorts of different plans and shrubs.

Keeping climate in mind is important when choosing a hedge plant, but so is the look you are seeking in your garden. Depending on the type of look you are going for, you'll need to find a hedge plant that can hold those specific shapes and designs. You need to know what look you are going for to make the most informed choice.

There are two main types of hedge designs: formal and informal. Most people probably think of formal designs when they think of hedges. The formal, traditional and sharp-edged designs of the formal hedge don't need to be limiting or stuffy. Nowadays you can offset the formality of these kinds of structure by mixing the straight and sharp lines of these hedges with more wild plant groupings.

Informal hedges are also an option if you want a more modern or contemporary feeling for your garden. Hedges used to be limited to a few varieties of plants, but now people use all different sorts of plants to make hedge lines : the only limit is your imagination!

Color is something else important to consider when choosing hedge plants. Though you may find vibrant colors attractive at first, you may tire of them eventually. A good rule of thumb is to stick with the traditional green for your hedges and use other plants to give your garden its color. It may seem boring initially, but in the long run it will allow you to change the look and feel of your garden using annuals instead of having to alter the overall structure of your yard space.

Hedges are not maintenance free plants. You need to make sure that you care for them properly, including trimming them into a suitable shape. They are a much more natural divider than fencing, but they do require more of a time investment so you'll need to make sure that you have the time to devote to your new hedges before you begin planting.

Hedges are a long-term landscaping investment. Because you will have them in your garden for so long, you need to make sure that you are doing your research and choosing the best hedge type and design for the long haul.

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Cordless Versions

When you begin shopping for an electric hedge trimmer you will likely notice there are three different power types to choose from. You can choose a corded trimmer, which will be less expensive, if you have only small jobs to do. You can also choose a gas powered trimmer if you have a large property or need to use the trimmer for long periods of time. The best overall choice however is the cordless trimmer. These trimmers are great for all sized projects and are easy to deal with. They require less maintenance than the gas powered trimmers and are easier to use than the corded varieties. If you want a great hedge trimmer, a cordless version is the one to choose.

Easy To Handle

The way a trimmer handles is one of the most important aspects to using it successfully. If you are a smaller person, you will certainly want to pay close attention to this. Some trimmers are bulky and heavy to hold. Never buy a trimmer that you feel is too difficult to pick up and hold steady. There are many lightweight options that are perfect for males and females. They are especially great if you are trimming a large area. You don't want to get tired halfway through and not be able to lug around your heavy trimmer to finish the job! So, be sure to try out the models in the store to see which fits you best.

Easy Spool Changes

Something that most people neglect to check out before buying is the spool changing procedures for the model of their choice. Different brands and models will offer different ways to change the spool. Take a look at the model in the store and see if it seems easy to change the spool. If you think it looks hard in the store, chances are it will be just as difficult at home. Keep this in mind when choosing. Most stores will have each model put together for you to see up close, so it should be easy to get an idea of how this task will go.

Edging Converter

When you are planning to use your trimmer once a year for your hedges, it can be frustrating to shell out the money for one. However, today you can find trimmers that not only work for hedges, but also convert to other useful things. One thing to look for in an electric hedge trimmer is an edging conversion. Many hedge trimmers can now convert to an edger. This can be great for any weekly or monthly edging you perform. It basically allows you to have two tools in one machine. Be sure the conversion is an easy one so you will be more likely to use the tool more often.

Vegetation Guard

If your hedges are close to other vegetation that you don't want to harm, consider finding a trimmer with a vegetation guard. There are many gardeners who won't let their spouse work the mower or trimmer because they run over their plants. This is a great way to avoid this accident. A vegetation guard will allow you to trim the hedges or grass without harming any plants nearby. Although you may not see this as a necessary option, you will find it easier to trim when your trimmer contains this luxury.

Related posts:

1. Is it Motorized or Manual? Pros and Cons of Pruning Both Ways
2. Pruning your Hedges : Four Top Tips to Know before You Start
3. The Basics of Forming your Hedge Shapes