Which plant is best for a hedge?

Hi, looking for some advice.

I would like to plant a hedge to act as a screen and for a bit of added security. The position is a little bit shaded (does get some sun at some parts of the day) , but drains well.

I have looked at planting hawthorn (Crataegus monogyna) as it gives flowers and berries to make it slightly more attractive.

What are my options, is this a good one to choose, or can anyone recommend a better one. Does have to flower, etc, but would like something that would deter people.

Many Thanks

 

Hawthorn is good choice (generous of farmers seemed to think so, and they can't all be wrong), but it is quite slow growing.

Why not go for a mixed hedge, with some wild roses among it for the pretty flowers and the nice red berries, some Elders, because they grow like lightning, and some Hawthorn.

Or, the Woodland Trust shop do a mixed hedge kit with various native species in it.

 

lots of great choices available to you...my personal favourite is beech or mixed purple and green beech, really classy. For wildlife value a mixed hedge is great, you could also include thorny varieties for extra secuirity.

(beech is beautiful though....go for that)

 

I've got an established beech hedge and like it a lot more than the laurel hedge I had at my last house. Beech is beautiful all year round and is quite easy to clip - I trim mine twice a year to keep it looking at its best.

An alternative, however, might be escallonia. It has tiny, pretty pink flowers but it's as tough as old boots and will tolerate quite bad conditions.

 

wow, that was quick. Amazing help, will take this in and see what suits me best.

Many Thanks

 

There is some perceived wisdom around that planting beech hedges nowadays is not a good idea. I believe this is becaue they are fairly thirsty and because of global warming, will not do as well as they used to.

However, Hornbeam is a more than adequate substitute, it tolerates poor soil and exposed sites, it keeps its (dry) leaves, well into winter and clips well. Also, if planted in a zigzag, it can make a nice thick hedge in two or three years.

However, I agree with Clueless1, and would recommend a mixed native hedge. A good supplier will have whips ready for planting quite soon.

Chris