Hedging

[Deleted]

Hi

We want to take out most of the plants in the non-descript border near the children's play area (see my garden thread for a picture) and replace them with something hard wearing as a hedge. We don't want it too big and it mustn't be spiky because of the kids. We were thinking about box but Mrs FA says it's too slow growing. Any alternative suggestions from you knowledgeable lot ?

I should also say that it gets plenty of sun and we want to keep it clipped to about 3ft tall.

Thanks

FA x

[Deleted]

First a question FA - deciduous or evergreen?

[Deleted]

Ooooh, hadn't given that a thought Rita. ummmm, first instinct is to say "evergreen" so it'll look good all year round.

FA x

[Deleted]

But to keep your wife happy it shouldn't be slow growing?

[Deleted]

Ummmmmm......yes

FA x

[Susie Snowdrop]

You could always buy box that is already 3ft . It will look nice but not very exciting...............how about a variety of different Hebe's, the variegated one is particularly striking. Or what about a line of step-over fruit trees.............easy height for the kiddy winks to pick the fruit themselves

S x

[Deleted]

We'd have to buy small box plants because of the cost. I think we might have to go with that and just be patient.

I did also think of maybe having euonymous instead. It's probably just as slow growing though !

FA x

[Chuckles]

Box is expensive FA but I've seen another shrub that is now being used for that boxy type hedging effect, can't think what it's called It can be trimmed hard and kept in shape like Box but grows faster, has tiny leaves and little white flowers then tiny deep purple berries. Obviuosly if trimmed you loose most of the flowers and berries.

I have some but not it's not trimmed I'll go take a pic Hope someone can ID it

Here you go, if left to grow it throws long arched branches

[Spruance]

How about Lonicera Nitida Baggesen's Gold FA?

Although it belongs to the honeysuckle family, it is nothing like the climbing plant.

It is a recognised alternative to box hedging, but faster growing, and much cheaper of course, hence its some time name of Poor Man's Box!

I can't seem to track down a good photo of the plant in hedge form so hopefully the one on this site will give you a reasonable idea.

[Chuckles]

You rang a bell for me with Lonicera Spruance ;D this is the one I have but I'm wondering if it's the one I've seen used for hedging now

www.rainyside.com/features/plant_gallery/shrubs/Lonicera_pileata.html