Growing a beech hedge yourself is no less time-consuming than planting a hedge made of conifers or other hedge plants. The condition of the soil at the desired location plays an important role. Beech trees do not grow well in every type of soil.
How do I grow a beech hedge myself?
To grow a beech hedge yourself, choose a sunny, partially shaded location with permeable, slightly moist soil. Plant two beech trees per meter in a 50 cm deep trench in autumn, improve the soil with compost (€41.00 on Amazon) and water the hedge well.
A good location is important
Beeches like it sunny to partially shaded. But if necessary, they also thrive in the shade. However, the location has to be right:
- Permeable soil
- not too sour
- always slightly moist
- slightly humous
- no waterlogging!
A beech hedge does not grow well on dry, sandy soil. If you cannot meet the requirements of the location, it is better to plant a hornbeam hedge. Hornbeams are not beeches, but belong to the birch family. They also thrive on dry soils.
How many beech trees do you need for your hedge?
To calculate the number of beech trees required for the hedge, measure the desired length. When fully grown, there should be two beeches per linear meter.
In the beginning, when the trees are still very small, you can also plant three to four beech trees per meter. But then after a few years you have to saw off the excess plants.
If you want the hedge to be very wide, plant the beech trees in a zigzag pattern. The planting distance should be 50 centimeters from the other trees.
How to plant the beech hedge in the garden
The best time to plant a beech hedge is autumn. Dig a trench approximately 50 centimeters deep. Loosen the soil well, improve it with compost (€41.00 on Amazon) and, if necessary, provide drainage. Plant the trees in the trench at the desired distance.
The earth is then filled in and not compacted too firmly around the beech tree. Now you have to water the new hedge well. In some soils it may be necessary to slurry them in.
For larger beech trees, finally place a support post next to the tree to which you tie the beech tree.
Tip
When planting a beech hedge, you should, if possible, work with two people. While one holds the tree, the other fills up the earth and tamps it down. This way the beeches will actually stand straight later.
