Plants for Hedging and Edging

Since the sad arrival of Box blight across the country, many people have turned to using Hedge Germander as a perfect replacement especially since the King planted this very attractive plant at Highgrove. It is ideal for planting a low border edging hedge and the glossy foliage can either be clipped hard for a formal appearance or allowed to flower with beautiful rose-pink blooms in late summer. The latter will reward you with plenty of bees and butterflies. Clip well back after flowering and the foliage will remain over the winter.  Many Thymes can be used in the same way. We would suggest using Lemon or Lemon Variegated Thyme, Silver Thymes or Common Garden or Compact Garden Thyme. Our favourite must be Orange Scented (Fragrant) Thyme. Remember to clip them all back after flowering to retain a dense border.  Hyssops are another pretty subject for border hedging or you may prefer the more compact Rock Hyssop (Hyssopus aristatus). All have lovely flowers which attract pollinators. For a taller hedge and if your garden is very sheltered, try some aromatic Rosemary. Miss Jessop’s Upright is the classic hedging Rosemary.  Planting distances will very much depend on your aspect, soil conditions and whether you wish for a close, formal hedge or something a little more relaxed. So please free to contact us to find out more.