(Question)
We are looking to create a tall dense hedge and plan to use hornbeams. What spacing should we use?
(Answer)
The hornbeam (Carpinus betulus) is a great hedging plant, since although it can be grown as a very tall specimen tree, it also takes well to severe pruning, to create hedges. For a hedge about 1 metre deep, you can plant the young trees 23-45 cm apart. You can also create a deeper, more dense hedge by planting in a staggered double row with 38cm between the rows and 45cm between the plants.
For a good look at a just planted hornbeam hedge and the same hedge the second year and finally, a mature hedge, you can visit this UK hedging company’s site here.
