Exploring Alternative Hedging Options Beyond Cedars

In landscaping and gardening, hedges play vital roles: they provide privacy, define boundaries, and enhance the beauty of outdoor spaces. While cedar hedges are a common choice due to their durability and pleasing appearance, many alternative hedging options await discovery. These alternatives can offer unique benefits tailored to different preferences and needs. In this post, we'll take a closer look at various hedging plants beyond cedars, discussing their characteristics, advantages, and ideal growing conditions.

The Appeal of Alternative Hedging Plants

When exploring hedging options, it’s crucial to recognize that different plants serve different purposes. Each species can offer varying levels of privacy, maintenance requirements, and visual appeal. By considering alternatives to cedar hedges, you may find options that suit your specific needs better.

One deciduous alternative is the Amber glow Dawn Redwood/ Metasequoia. Known for its glowing yellow/amber foliage, this cultivar of Dawn Redwood can be shaped into large formal hedges, making it versatile for both traditional and modern gardens. This cultivar keeps your garden looking lush during the spring summer and fall with dense branching depending on pruning habits for winter coverage. These do grow fast and large but can be maintained with a hard trimming 2-3 times a year.

Metasequoia glyptostroboides 'Amber Glow'

Another noteworthy deciduous option is the Parkland Pillar Birch/Betula a soon to be popular species for all sort of uses in the garden. This plant is valued for its rapid growth and dense growth habit, which provide excellent privacy. Parkland pillars thrive in various soil types, from clay to sandy loam, and require minimal maintenance, making them ideal for busy gardeners. From my experience growing this cultivar they grow quickly and upright with a pyramidal shape and a bright yellow fall colour. making them a fast choice for an instant privacy screen.

Betula platyphylla 'Parkland Pillar'

Transform Your Garden with the Right Hedges

Be creative, tailor your hedging to your space and needs, feel free to reach out anytime to brainstorm ideas as a team :)