SolveYourProblem
Hedges Article Series
I
Want To Create
The Perfect Hedge
When
to Plant a Perfect Hedge
If you are just a beginner in the garden,
you may have just come across the use of “zones”. The terms
may seem confusing at first, but once you become familiar with
it, you will find it to be extremely helpful in planting a
successful and healthy garden or hedge. The basics of the system
are that by labeling each area of the world (more specifically
North and South America), you will be able to easily identify
plants that are most appropriate for your area.
Each
area is given a zone number. When looking to purchase
plants, you can look for your area’s number to ensure the plant
will thrive on your property. Many gardening companies will
devise their own versions of planting zones, so be sure that
if you are purchasing from these companies, you are choosing
the right plants for your area. Most are based upon the universal
USDA Plant Hardiness Map however. There are approximately 20
zones on the USDA map; however again, many companies will simplify
these zones to fit their consumers’ area.
When trying to figure out when to plant your hedge, you will
need to refer to your area’s zone. This will help you determine
the appropriate planting time. If you cannot find a USDA Plant
Hardiness Map, contact your local agricultural extension office
and they will be able to assist you with information. They
will also be able to tell you about your specific hedge species
and characteristics about it that will help it grow healthy.
After figuring out which zone you reside within, be
sure to check the labels on your hedge plants to see if
it is best
for your zone. These container tags may tell you a great deal
about your plant, including the best time to plant it. They
frequently also include how much sun the plant needs as well
as water and soil needs for the particular species.
Most hedges should be planted in mild weather. If you live
in an area where you experience all four seasons, this should
be in the spring or late fall. You don’t want the weather to
be too cold or too hot. If you can choose a mild time of year,
your hedge will likely do better. If you want to stimulate
growth, consider the late fall. You should always plant before
the first snow however. When the leaves begin to change colors,
it is probably a good time to plant. This way, by the time
spring and summer arrive, you will be able to see your hedge
thrive. Many plants will require this colder period to stimulate
growth. Be sure that the hedge plant you choose is hardy enough
to withstand your winters.
Knowing your frost date zones and times are helpful as well.
Along with the hardiness zones, they will help you know when
to generally expect frost in your area. This is important because
you would not want to plant something too early in spring and
have it damaged by frost or too late in the fall so that you
miss the opportunity before the frost comes. Knowing your zone
is not only knowing the number but also noting key dates in
the year when generally the front occurs and ends.
Unless you are planting a hedge that doesn’t need much water,
you should always be sure to avoid planting in an extremely
dry time as well. Hedges don’t typically require additional
watering and can thrive quite well on rainwater alone. However,
if you plant during a dry time, you will have to water the
new plant often until the natural water returns.
Overall, to know when the best time is to plant a hedge, you
need to begin with your zone number. Research your zone and
frost date zones in order to know when to plant. Also, research
your specific plant species and note whether the plant prefers
to be planted before or after winter. This will help you plant
appropriately and get the best results available. Do this with
each type of plant to grow the healthiest plants around. It
might take a little time at first, but after you get the hang
of it, it will seem natural to you.
