Fall is the perfect time to plant hedges

By ANN JOHNSTON
LFN

As we enjoy our slightly cooler weather for Fall in our Valley, we have certain gardening activities that fit this season. One is planting hedges. The soil is easier to dig after some autumn rains and is still warm enough for roots to catch hold. The roots can then bring nourishment up to the plant for them to get established enough for winter time.

There are several areas where you would plant hedges. Traditional and formal yards use lots of hedges around foundations of buildings and homes and along fences and boundaries.

Suggestion: Always consider why the hedge is being planted. Is it for a windbreak, privacy, to mark property lines, line sidewalks, provide color, soften appearance of fences or walls, or to provide food and homes for wildlife?

• Research your favorite plants as to height, width, and style of architecture nearby. Short plants should be under windows and tall against fences and walls.
• Is the hedge to provide privacy or block noise from the street?
• Are the plant choices evergreen or will the whole area end up bare of leaves in the winter even in our tropical Valley?
  Hint: Have a base of evergreen plants mixed with deciduous ones that might drop their leaves.
• Some plants like it dry; some shady; and others just like the opposite. For instance: bougainvillea doesn’t like regular watering from sprinkler systems if you intend for it to bloom well. Turk’s Cap enjoys some shade. Be sure you are aware of a plant’s particular needs and don’t mix types of hedge plants with opposing ones.

Hint: Don’t think you can use a tall-growing plant and keep it trimmed to fit a short area. You are just setting yourself up for continuous work!

• If time is a consideration, fences are faster and need less maintenance!

Come back through the Garden Gate next week for more suggestions and hints for gardening in our Magic Valley.