With its large and strong thorns, the evergreen firethorn forms almost impenetrable hedges that are ideal as natural property boundaries. In spring the tree is decorated with delicately scented flower umbels. Inside the hedge, birds find a protected place to raise their young. At the same time, the bright orange-red fruits of the firethorn serve as valuable food for our feathered friends during the winter months.
What should you consider with a firethorn hedge?
A firethorn hedge is suitable as a natural property boundary and offers birds protection and food. Plant in well-drained topsoil, in full sun, and fertilize in spring. Trim the hedge regularly to keep it dense and compact.
The Planting
The firethorn thrives in water-permeable topsoil and prefers a location in full sun. Place a drainage layer of gravel in the planting holes, as the wood reacts to too much water with root rot. The optimal planting distance is thirty centimeters for cut hedges. If you plan a hedge with natural growth, the distance may be one meter or more.
Watering and fertilizing
The firethorn hedge requires little care. Since firethorn is a deep-rooted plant, it only needs to be watered occasionally during long dry periods. In this case, flood the plant thoroughly. A fertilizer application with nitrogen-containing fertilizers in spring rewards the firethorn with rich flower and fruit sets. Fully ripe compost or organic fertilizer is well suited.
Cutting the Firethorn
The firethorn tolerates pruning well. Without pruning, the tree usually grows somewhat sparsely and reaches heights of up to six meters. Without regular pruning, the firethorn tends to grow top-heavy and gradually collapse in an unsightly manner.
How to cut hedges successfully
Therefore, shorten the long shoots without branches using sharp rose or pruning shears (€17.00 at Amazon). Since this encourages new growth, the young plants grow more quickly into a dense and even hedge. Give the firethorn hedge a slightly rounded outline so that more light can penetrate inside. Alternatively, you can shape slightly larger hedges with the electric hedge trimmer.
Cutting time
Early spring at the beginning of March is the right time for heavy pruning. In June or July, when the pretty flower umbels have faded and the bush is just starting to produce fruit, you can make smaller correction cuts. Do not cut off all the flowers to ensure there are enough food reserves for birds.
Always trim the hedge on cloudy days or in the evening. Hedges cut in the blazing midday sun suffer sunburn on the young leaves, which weakens the trees. From September you should stop pruning so that the wood can mature well until the first frosts.
Choice of varieties
Unfortunately, some firethorn varieties are susceptible to fire blight and scab. In addition, not all firethorn species are completely hardy. When choosing, pay attention to resistant varieties that cannot be harmed by longer periods of frost.
Tips & Tricks
The firethorn with its dense spines is used by many rare bird species as a protected retreat from enemies such as cats or martens. When cutting, be considerate of breeding birds and, if possible, do not disturb the animals.