Thinking outside the Box Ц Box Hedge, That Is

Articles on Hedges | Topics: hedges, hedge, bushes, bush

by Issac Russell

If you love the idea of having a hedge on your property, but have very little sun, you may want to consider using a box hedge, also called a boxwood hedge. Boxwood hedges are defined as being evergreen upright shrubs. They are mostly formal in style however if you choose not to prune them, they can look more informal in style. The great thing about them is that they can grow in any area. They thrive in full, partial, or no sun. Box hedges can be added to any area of your property, without worry. They make the perfect addition to an already shady yard.

The shape of a box hedge depends completely on its species. Many box hedges grow to be spherical. Some species will grow upward and be skinnier than others. Almost all species, being evergreens, will provide a green look all year. This is perfect for those who want their hedge to maintain its look, even in the winter months. The protection will also last throughout the winter as well. With a thick coverage of leaves throughout the box hedge, birds and other forms of wildlife will enjoy this type of hedge greatly.

Not only will birds and wildlife flock to the hedge in the warm seasons to eat, rest, and nest, they will also find it warm and comforting in the cooler months. Many animals that do not hibernate or migrate in the winter need a place to call their home. Box hedges are the perfect solution for these animals. If you are interested in attracting wildlife to your yard or property, adding the box hedge is a great way to do so.

Boxwood hedges are known for their long life spans. The typical life span for a boxwood hedge is three hundred years or more. This is an incredible amount of time. When adding a box hedge to your property you can think about how the plant will provide wildlife in your area with protection and comfort long after you are gone. It will also provide beauty and enjoyment to the yard for many years to come. These hardy plants are great investments. You will certainly get enough use out of them and will come to rely on their hardiness.

аQuote of the Day

Faster than fairies, faster than witches,
Bridges and houses, hedges and ditches;
And charging along like troops in a battle,
All through the meadows the horses and cattle;

—Robert Louis Stevenson (1850–1894)

Many species of box hedges offer small blooms in spring times. Most of the blooms are so small however that they are virtually unnoticed. Depending on what species you are dealing with, these hedges can vary a lot in size and height. The differences are drastic, with some getting only one foot tall and others getting over 15 feet tall. If you are looking for a particular height, be sure to research the species you are considering. You may also want to fork over cash for a more mature box hedge because they grow very slowly. The average box hedge will only grow a few inches a year. So, if you want a tall hedge immediately, you may want to visit a nursery for a mature plant.

Like all other hedges, the box hedge is very easy to maintain. Once it is planted and initially watered after the planting, there is very little to do. You can simply watch your hedge thrive on its own with the help of natural sunlight and rainwater. You can choose to prune the plant as often as you like. Experts typically suggest pruning it once a year at least. However, if you prefer a messier look, you can leave it growing naturally.

Some species of box hedges will grow in harsh climates, while others may be able to grow throughout only mild winters. If you live in an area where below freezing temperatures are very common in the winter months, be sure to get a species that can handle those temperatures. The plants are very hardy but some species do have their breaking points.

Again, if you are looking for a great way to add green to your yard all year long, a box hedge is a great choice. You can choose from many different sizes and heights. This hedge works well in style with existing plants as well. You can count on the box hedge to add beauty and life to your yard even when there is snow on the ground.

We strive to provide only high quality articles on our website. If there is a specific topic about hedges that you would like us to cover, please contact us here.

Please note: All personal opinions expressed in the "Thinking outside the Box Ц Box Hedge, That Is" article belong to the contributing author and are not necessarily shared by FlowersPlantsGardening.com.

Hanging Around Ц How to Maintain those Hanging Plants and Keep Them Healthy
By Udaya Zamora
When space is limited, or when to give your garden a different dimension, hanging baskets are a great idea! Hanging from anything, a deck, pergola or verandahs your baskets can look fabulous. You can even attach a half basket to a wall or fence....

Gardening Tools
By Trey Lowery
If you have a gardener on your gift list, you might want to get them gardening tools for Christmas or whatever holiday it is that you celebrate. Though you may think it an odd gift to give in the middle of the winter, you will find that they will love that you thought to get them something they might need....

Don't Fence Me in Ц A Guide to Bushes and Hedges
By Ildiko Underwood
A hedge used as a fence can add to the pleasant appearance of your landscaping. You can use hedges to define property lines and add create beauty to your landscaping project....

Popular and Easy Plants to Use for your Water Garden
By Frederick Quinn
Popular and Easy Plants to Use for your Water Garden а There are complete kits that you can purchase that have all the things you need to get started on your pond or you can design your own from scratch. There are a few important facts to consider before you start digging your pond....