Laurel is a hardy, evergreen plant that grows natively throughout Asia and Europe. The plant is perfect for backyard and property hedges because of its fast growth rates, thick foliage and ability to thrive in nearly any type of soil or sun conditions. Laurel hedging features massive, stunning green leaves that are easily shaped through regular pruning. These hedges come in a assortment of styles, will serve a range of purposes and when cared well, provide a long-standing, welcome addition to any estate.

One common reason for planting a garden hedge is aesthetics. Most hedging plants have lush, thick foliage in lively shades of green. Hedges add variety to any existing landscape design through the infusion of colors, textures and shapes which will not be represented in other elements within the design. If you were to see the outdoor space on any property as a canvas, the hedge surrounding that property is the ornamental frame.

Leylandii and laurel hedging grow rapidly, providing fast boundaries along property lines. These boundaries can be necessary as a means of maintaining confidentiality. As the hedges grow round the property, they produce a natural wall blocking direct views into the property from neighbors and passers-by. These boundaries will also provide safety. As they become thicker and taller, they discourage unwelcome guests from freely accessing the property they surround.

Laurel hedges will be planted at almost any time of year, although many lawn and garden professionals suggest planting any kind of hedge or shrub plant in early autumn. This gives the plants enough time to completely set up a root system before the colder winter months move in, while additionally defending new, young plants from the heat and dry conditions common in summer months. The objective is to plant a new hedge in cool, mild weather, ensuring that it stays damp until the root patterns are totally developed.

When left to their own devices, laurel plants will grow in large, loose trees. Repeated pruning can facilitate laurel hedges maintain proper shape. Trim laurel hedges in initial spring, ideally after the last frost of the season and after the last of the spring blooms have fallen away. Always prune a hedge so lower branches will still have access to a correct quantity of sunlight. For balance, trim the hedge so the base is wider than the top. It is additionally suggested to remove branches and leaves that died during the winter to take care of the health of the plants.

Laurel hedges are an excellent addition to any outdoor design scheme. They grow quickly, need least maintenance, have dense foliage that act as a natural privacy fence, give greenery all year long and thrive in nearly any kind of soil or sun exposure.