Hedges are a fantastic way to add privacy, structure, and beauty to your garden. But often, the ground beneath them is overlooked. Knowing what to put under hedges is crucial for their long-term health, aesthetic appeal, and overall success of your landscaping. This guide explores the best options, providing detailed insights into creating the perfect under-hedge environment.
Understanding the Importance of Under-Hedge Ground Cover
The soil under your hedges isn’t just empty space; it’s a critical component of their ecosystem. Choosing the right ground cover significantly impacts moisture retention, weed control, nutrient availability, and the overall health of your hedges.
Moisture Retention and Soil Health
One of the primary benefits of adding something under your hedges is improved moisture retention. Mulch, for example, acts as a barrier, slowing down evaporation and keeping the soil consistently moist. This is particularly important during dry spells. Healthy soil also fosters robust root growth, making your hedges more resilient to diseases and pests.
Weed Control and Maintenance Reduction
Weeds compete with your hedges for water, nutrients, and sunlight. Applying a suitable ground cover smothers weed seeds, preventing them from germinating and reducing the need for constant weeding. This saves you time and effort in the long run.
Aesthetic Appeal and Visual Harmony
Beyond the practical benefits, the right under-hedge covering enhances the visual appeal of your landscape. It creates a neat, tidy look and complements the texture and color of your hedges, adding depth and dimension to your garden design.
Organic Mulches: Nature’s Best Friend for Hedges
Organic mulches are a popular and effective choice for under-hedge ground cover. They decompose over time, enriching the soil with valuable nutrients and improving its structure.
Wood Chips: A Classic and Versatile Option
Wood chips are readily available, relatively inexpensive, and offer excellent weed control. They decompose slowly, providing long-lasting benefits. Choose aged wood chips to avoid nitrogen depletion in the soil as they break down. Avoid using wood chips directly against the hedge stems to prevent rot.
Shredded Bark: Elegant and Effective
Shredded bark, such as pine bark or cedar bark, adds a touch of elegance to your garden. It retains moisture well and decomposes at a moderate rate, providing a steady stream of nutrients to the soil. Cedar bark also has natural insect-repelling properties.
Compost: A Nutrient-Rich Soil Amendment
Compost is a fantastic option for improving soil health and providing essential nutrients to your hedges. Apply a layer of compost under your hedges in the spring or fall to boost their growth and vitality. Be sure the compost is fully decomposed to avoid burning the plants.
Pine Straw: Ideal for Acid-Loving Hedges
If you have acid-loving hedges, such as azaleas or rhododendrons, pine straw is an excellent choice. It naturally acidifies the soil as it decomposes, creating the perfect environment for these plants.
Inorganic Mulches: Long-Lasting and Low-Maintenance
Inorganic mulches don’t decompose, so they don’t add nutrients to the soil. However, they offer long-lasting weed control and moisture retention with minimal maintenance.
Gravel and Stone: A Permanent Solution
Gravel and stone are durable, long-lasting options that provide excellent drainage. They are particularly suitable for dry climates or areas with poor soil drainage. Choose a size that complements your hedges and overall landscape design.
Landscape Fabric: A Weed Barrier
Landscape fabric is a synthetic material that allows water and nutrients to pass through while blocking weed growth. It’s often used as a base layer under other mulches, such as gravel or stone, to provide an extra layer of weed control.
Rubber Mulch: Recycled and Durable
Rubber mulch is made from recycled tires and is a durable, long-lasting option. It retains moisture well and provides a cushion for plants. However, it doesn’t decompose and doesn’t add nutrients to the soil. Be mindful of potential chemical leaching from rubber mulch, especially in vegetable gardens.
Living Ground Covers: A Natural and Sustainable Approach
Living ground covers are low-growing plants that spread to form a dense mat, suppressing weeds and adding visual interest to your garden. They are a sustainable and eco-friendly alternative to traditional mulches.
Creeping Thyme: Fragrant and Low-Maintenance
Creeping thyme is a fragrant, low-growing plant that thrives in sunny locations. It tolerates foot traffic and releases a pleasant aroma when crushed. It’s a great choice for adding a touch of charm to your hedge borders.
Clover: A Nitrogen-Fixing Ground Cover
Clover is a nitrogen-fixing plant that enriches the soil with this essential nutrient. It attracts beneficial insects and pollinators to your garden. Choose a low-growing variety that won’t compete with your hedges.
Vinca Minor: Evergreen and Shade-Tolerant
Vinca minor, also known as periwinkle, is an evergreen ground cover that thrives in shady locations. It forms a dense mat that suppresses weeds and adds a touch of elegance to your garden.
Pachysandra: A Classic Ground Cover for Shade
Pachysandra is another excellent choice for shady areas. It has glossy, evergreen foliage and spreads quickly to form a dense ground cover.
Considerations for Choosing the Right Under-Hedge Cover
Selecting the best ground cover for your hedges depends on several factors, including the type of hedges you have, your climate, soil conditions, and personal preferences.
Hedge Type and Soil Requirements
Different hedges have different soil requirements. Consider the specific needs of your hedges when choosing a ground cover. Acid-loving hedges, for example, benefit from acidic mulches like pine straw.
Climate and Weather Conditions
Your climate plays a significant role in determining the best ground cover. In dry climates, moisture-retentive mulches like wood chips or shredded bark are ideal. In wet climates, well-draining options like gravel or stone are preferable.
Sunlight and Shade
The amount of sunlight your hedges receive will also influence your choice of ground cover. Shade-tolerant plants like vinca minor or pachysandra are best suited for shady areas, while sun-loving plants like creeping thyme thrive in sunny locations.
Maintenance Requirements
Consider the amount of maintenance you’re willing to invest in your under-hedge ground cover. Organic mulches require periodic replenishment as they decompose, while inorganic mulches offer long-lasting weed control with minimal maintenance. Living ground covers require regular trimming to prevent them from spreading too aggressively.
Preparing the Area Before Applying Ground Cover
Proper preparation is essential for ensuring the success of your under-hedge ground cover.
Weed Removal and Soil Preparation
Start by removing all existing weeds from the area under your hedges. This can be done manually or with a herbicide. Loosen the soil with a garden fork or tiller to improve drainage and aeration.
Adding Soil Amendments
If your soil is poor or compacted, consider adding soil amendments like compost or aged manure to improve its structure and fertility. This will provide your hedges with the nutrients they need to thrive.
Leveling the Surface
Level the surface of the soil to create a smooth, even base for your ground cover. This will prevent water from pooling in certain areas.
Application Techniques for Different Ground Covers
The application technique varies depending on the type of ground cover you’re using.
Mulch Application
Apply a layer of mulch 2-4 inches thick under your hedges, keeping it a few inches away from the stems to prevent rot. Replenish the mulch as needed to maintain the desired thickness.
Gravel and Stone Application
Spread a layer of gravel or stone 2-3 inches thick under your hedges. Use a rake to evenly distribute the material.
Living Ground Cover Planting
Plant living ground cover according to the instructions on the plant label. Space the plants appropriately to allow them to spread and form a dense mat. Water them regularly until they are established.
Maintaining Your Under-Hedge Ground Cover
Regular maintenance is essential for keeping your under-hedge ground cover looking its best and performing its functions effectively.
Weed Control
Even with a ground cover, some weeds may still pop up. Remove them promptly to prevent them from spreading.
Replenishing Mulch
Organic mulches decompose over time and need to be replenished periodically. Check the thickness of your mulch layer and add more as needed.
Pruning Living Ground Covers
Living ground covers may need to be pruned occasionally to prevent them from spreading too aggressively or becoming overgrown.
Troubleshooting Common Problems
Even with the best planning and maintenance, you may encounter some problems with your under-hedge ground cover.
Fungal Growth
Fungal growth can occur in damp, shady areas. Improve air circulation by pruning your hedges and removing any dead leaves or debris.
Pest Infestations
Some pests may be attracted to certain types of ground cover. Monitor your plants regularly and take appropriate action if you notice any signs of infestation.
Soil Compaction
Soil compaction can occur over time, especially in areas with heavy foot traffic. Aerate the soil regularly to improve drainage and aeration.
Examples of Successful Under-Hedge Plantings
To give you some inspiration, here are a few examples of successful under-hedge plantings:
- Boxwood hedges with a layer of shredded bark and a border of creeping thyme.
- Yew hedges with a bed of pachysandra for a classic, low-maintenance look.
- Azalea hedges with pine straw to maintain acidic soil conditions.
- Privet hedges with gravel for a modern, minimalist design.
Choosing the right ground cover for under your hedges is an investment in their health, beauty, and longevity. By understanding the different options and considering your specific needs and preferences, you can create a thriving ecosystem that enhances your landscape for years to come. Remember to prioritize soil health, weed control, and aesthetic appeal when making your decision. With a little planning and effort, you can transform the area under your hedges into a beautiful and functional part of your garden.
What are the benefits of using mulch under hedges?
Mulching under hedges offers a multitude of advantages for both the plant and the surrounding landscape. Primarily, mulch helps to retain soil moisture, reducing the need for frequent watering, especially during dry periods. This is crucial for establishing healthy root systems and promoting vigorous growth. Moreover, mulch acts as a natural weed suppressant, preventing unwanted plants from competing with the hedges for essential nutrients and sunlight.
Beyond moisture retention and weed control, mulch also contributes to soil health and temperature regulation. As organic mulches decompose, they enrich the soil with valuable nutrients, improving its overall fertility and structure. Furthermore, mulch insulates the soil, protecting the hedge roots from extreme temperature fluctuations, which can be particularly beneficial during harsh winters or scorching summers. This contributes to the long-term health and resilience of the hedges.
What types of mulch are best suited for use under hedges?
The ideal mulch for under hedges depends on your aesthetic preferences, soil type, and the specific needs of your hedge species. Organic mulches, such as shredded bark, wood chips, pine straw, and compost, are generally recommended. These materials decompose over time, enriching the soil with nutrients and improving its structure. Compost, in particular, is excellent for adding organic matter and promoting healthy microbial activity in the soil.
Inorganic mulches, like gravel or pebbles, can also be used, though they don’t offer the same soil-enriching benefits as organic options. Inorganic mulches are durable and long-lasting, providing excellent weed control and drainage. However, they can retain heat, which might not be suitable for all hedge types, especially in warmer climates. Consider the specific requirements of your hedges before selecting a mulch type.
How thick should the layer of mulch be under my hedges?
The recommended thickness of mulch under hedges is typically between 2 to 4 inches. This depth provides sufficient weed suppression, moisture retention, and soil insulation without suffocating the roots of the hedges. Applying too much mulch can restrict airflow and potentially lead to root rot or other fungal diseases.
Conversely, a layer of mulch that is too thin will not effectively suppress weeds or retain moisture, defeating the purpose of mulching. Monitor the mulch layer periodically and replenish it as needed to maintain the optimal thickness. Over time, organic mulches will decompose and compact, requiring periodic additions to maintain the protective layer.
How far away from the hedge stems should I apply the mulch?
When applying mulch around hedges, it’s crucial to avoid piling it directly against the stems or trunks. Leave a gap of a few inches (approximately 2-3 inches) between the mulch and the base of the hedge. This practice, often referred to as “donut mulching,” prevents moisture from being trapped against the bark, which can lead to fungal infections, rot, and pest infestations.
Creating this small gap allows for proper air circulation around the base of the hedges, promoting healthy growth and reducing the risk of disease. It also prevents the bark from becoming excessively moist, which can attract pests and weaken the plant’s defenses. Maintaining this clear space is a simple yet essential practice for ensuring the long-term health and vigor of your hedges.
Can I use weed fabric under the mulch to prevent weeds?
While weed fabric can seem like a convenient solution for preventing weeds under hedges, its use is generally not recommended in the long term. Although weed fabric initially blocks weeds from growing, it can eventually become clogged with soil and organic matter, rendering it less effective. Moreover, it can impede the natural exchange of air and water between the soil and the atmosphere.
Over time, weed fabric can also hinder the beneficial decomposition of organic mulches, preventing them from enriching the soil with nutrients. Additionally, the fabric can make it difficult to amend the soil or transplant hedges in the future. Opting for a thick layer of organic mulch is generally a more sustainable and beneficial approach to weed control in the long run.
How often should I replenish the mulch under my hedges?
The frequency with which you need to replenish the mulch under your hedges depends on the type of mulch you use and the rate at which it decomposes. Organic mulches, such as shredded bark or wood chips, typically need to be replenished annually or bi-annually. Observe the thickness of the mulch layer and add more material when it begins to thin out or decompose significantly.
Inorganic mulches, like gravel or pebbles, are much more durable and require less frequent replenishment. However, they may need occasional cleaning to remove debris or weeds that may accumulate on the surface. Regularly inspecting the mulch layer and addressing any issues promptly will help maintain its effectiveness and ensure the health of your hedges.
Are there any groundcover alternatives to mulch for under hedges?
Yes, there are several groundcover alternatives to mulch that can create a visually appealing and functional landscape under hedges. Low-growing plants such as creeping thyme, vinca minor, or pachysandra can provide excellent weed suppression and soil coverage. These plants also help to retain moisture and prevent soil erosion.
Choosing a groundcover that is well-suited to the growing conditions and compatible with the hedge species is essential. Consider factors such as sunlight exposure, soil type, and water requirements when selecting a groundcover. Groundcovers can offer a more natural and visually interesting alternative to mulch, adding beauty and biodiversity to the landscape.