Starfish

West Coast Gardener: Practical Privacy for Any Size Yard

– by Brent Hansen, Island Landscapers Inc –

As a local landscape designer serving the peninsula for over 30 years, I know that fall can be a difficult time for our gardens. Our hard work from the summer can get swept away by the autumn winds and Island rains. Fall is a season of renewal and is perfect for planting and designing our outdoor living spaces. A great place to start is a properly installed hedge as it will increase your living space and privacy outside, providing you with years of enjoyment.

Selecting your planting materials is important: consider cedars that are available in a variety of shapes and sizes. Cedars are dense, colourful and sturdy in your yard offering a visual, sound and weather-proof barrier outside.

When space is limited, create an instant wall using Smaragd or Pyramidalis cedars. These are good choices because they are moderate growing, increasing in height while requiring little pruning. They are great for keeping deer out and pets in. A common mistake made when installing these cedars is that they are often planted too far apart. When planted at such a distance that they never fill in, we are left with gaps. For the best results, plant trees at a distance of 24″ to 30″ between centres. This separation will ensure that they grow to form a consistent privacy wall in
small spaces.

Where height and privacy is desired immediately and space is more abundant, try trees like Cypress Leylandii or Western Red Cedar. These are some of the fastest growing hedge trees you can use. With proper care these trees can put on over 3 feet of growth in one season. Plant these cedars with a space of 36″ to 48″ between the centers of each tree. Remember: pruning is very important to maintaining fast growing hedges like these.

Prevent unruly and unappealing hedges in either space by helping each tree look its best. Proper pruning determines the appearance and success of your hedge. Do not be afraid to prune! Fullness, height and shape can all be controlled by how you groom your cedars. First, only allow trees to grow to a height that is easily maintainable. Pruning the top of your hedge after it has reached the desired height is essential, as this will decide the thickness of your hedge. Second, continue to prune the sides to ensure a thick, lush hedge, as this will prevent gaps and holes. Last, remember to prune twice a year in the spring and fall.

Create a space of your own this fall, and thank your beautiful cedar hedge next spring when you are enjoying privacy and serenity in your new outdoor living space.

For more information visit www.islandlandscapers.ca.

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