Hornbeam hedges are among the easy-care hedges in the garden. The plants are robust and only need a lot of attention in the first few years so that they form a dense hedge. Tips on how to properly care for a hornbeam hedge.
How do I properly care for a hornbeam hedge?
Caring for a hornbeam hedge includes regular watering in the first few years, targeted fertilization, frequent pruning in the early years and twice a year thereafter, as well as the prevention of diseases and pests through pruning and moisture control. Hardy, it usually does not need winter protection.
When is it necessary to water hornbeam hedges?
After the hornbeam hedge has been planted, it must be well mudded. In the first years and in very dry summers and winters it is necessary to water them so that the roots do not dry out if possible.
Older hornbeam hedges have such long roots that additional watering is only necessary in very dry conditions.
How are the hedges properly fertilized?
Hornbeam hedges are frugal. Fertilization is only necessary in the first few years. Later, the trees take care of themselves via their long roots.
The last fertilization takes place in late summer. Fertilization is no longer carried out in autumn, as the hedge then sprouts again and the new shoots cannot tolerate frost.
How often does a hornbeam hedge need to be trimmed?
In the first few years, a hornbeam hedge needs to be cut very often so that it branches well and becomes nice and dense. It is thinned out up to six times a year and brought to the desired height and width.
Older hedges are trimmed twice a year, with heavy pruning in early spring and lighter topiary from the end of June.
Can a hornbeam hedge be transplanted?
In the first few years, a hornbeam hedge can sometimes be transplanted. The older it is, the more difficult it is to get the roots completely out of the ground. Older hedges should therefore no longer be transplanted.
What diseases and pests can occur?
- Mildew
- Leaf spot fungus
- hornbeam spider mites
Regular pruning and avoiding too much moisture or dryness prevents diseases and pests.
Does a hornbeam hedge need protection in winter?
Hornbeam hedges are hardy and don't actually need any winter protection. However, to prevent the soil from drying out, covering it with a layer of mulch is recommended.
Tip
In the first few years after planting, the hornbeam hedge needs some attention. Once it has grown properly and is nice and dense, you can almost leave it to its own devices. The hedge then only needs to be trimmed twice a year.
