The question of when is the right time to plant a hornbeam hedge depends on what kind of plants you have bought or grown. In general, hornbeam hedges, like all hedges, are best planted in autumn.
When should you plant a hornbeam hedge?
The best time to plant a hornbeam hedge is in autumn, as the soil is well moistened and the roots do not dry out. Bare root and balled plants should be planted during this time. Container hornbeams can be planted until May.
Planting hornbeam hedges in autumn
Autumn is the best time to plant a hornbeam hedge. The soil is then well moistened, so there is no risk of the roots drying out.
In spring and summer it is often too dry. Even regular watering cannot prevent the hornbeams from growing.
The recommendation applies especially to bare root and balled plants that need some time to get used to the new location. You should cut the hornbeams for the first time immediately after planting.
Choose a frost-free day
To plant the hornbeam hedge, choose a day when it is guaranteed to be frost-free. A frost break should not be expected in the next few days.
A cloudy day is favorable when it is not raining heavily. However, light drizzle is no problem.
Container plants can be planted until May
Container hornbeams have their price, but you can still plant your hedge with these plants until May.
The roots are firmly embedded in the soil, so they are well looked after at first. The hornbeams just need to be mudded well and watered on very dry days.
Tip
To plant a hornbeam hedge, it is best to dig a trench about 40 centimeters deep. After you have improved the soil with compost and horn shavings (€52.00 on Amazon), place the hornbeams 50 centimeters apart and fill the soil back up.
