Whether for privacy, windbreak or wildlife habitat, take time to pick the right garden hedge

Far better to plant a slow-growing form as what may seem like a disadvantage initially can be become a distinct advantage when the hedge is mature.

Tall hedges which will reach over two metres are commonly used for privacy or windbreaks. Yew, Taxus baccata, hornbeam, Carpinus betulus and some cypresses are suited to this type of hedge.

Selecting the right hedge for your garden is a big decision. Whether your focus is to create privacy, a windbreak, or a habitat for wildlife, choosing the right hedge involves considering several factors, namely eventual dimensions, soil type and condition, and exposure to the elements such as wind and levels of sunlight.

The first question to ask when choosing a hedge is how tall and wide you want it to grow. Do you need a low-border hedge, or are you aiming for a tall privacy screen? Most hedges can be pruned to be kept at the height that you want but choosing well and doing your homework in advance, knowing their potential mature size helps avoid excessive pruning and high maintenance.