Mixed Hedges
Most people choose to grow a single species hedge in their gardens, such as privet, western red cedar, box or yew hedge. This is always a safe bet, as most people are familiar with these typical hedging plants and their pros and cons, which is likely why these particular species are so common among gardens throughout Europe and the UK. Another advantage of these hedging plants is that they are commonly available at any garden centre. There is certainly a reason why these hedge plants are so popular, as they create dense, durable hedges that are great as barriers and provide privacy, which is exactly what many people are looking for. However, this approach also tends to make your hedge somewhat formal and monotonous.
If you wish to be a little more adventurous or simply cannot choose between two or more different species, it may be worth considering a mixed hedge. After all, growing a single species is not an obligation or even a convention; it is nothing more than a choice that is commonly made. One of the greatest benefits of planting a mixed hedge in your garden is the simple fact that you are not restricted to the growth habit and character of one single species. For example, if you choose to plant a combination of evergreens and deciduous plants – your hedge will not only look great during flowering season, but it will also retain a healthy green look throughout the winter.
Mixed Hedges: Endless Possibilities
While the possibilities of mixed hedging are seemingly endless and only restricted by the limits of your imagination, we have compiled a number of mixed hedges, all of which have a specific purpose and are named accordingly. Intruder hedges, for example, are characterised by vicious thorns and impenetrable branches, which are sure to keep unwanted guests out. On the other hand, tall or low flowering mixed hedges have consecutive flowering seasons to ensure your garden will look as lively and colourful as possible throughout the year. For a maximum of colour, you could of course also plant a mixed colour hedge, while mixed wildlife hedges are sure to attract birds, butterflies and bees. If you are looking for a pleasant smell to embellish your garden, you could consider a fragrant mixed hedge. Of course, these names only display the suggested purposes of these mixes and you are free to plant these combinations for different purposes than their names imply – or to choose your own mix. Some people simply like the look of an intruder hedge and will therefore plant these hedges for their ornamental value rather than their protective nature, with the latter being an additional advantage. If you live in the countryside, you may want to look into our mixed country hedges. While hawthorn hedges are a common sight among the British countryside and while they can be beautiful, our suggestion consisting of four species is a little more exciting. The hedging suggestions we present to you on this website typically contain plants – often native species – that create relatively open hedges.
Benefits of Mixed Hedging
Mixed hedges are available in a wide variety of colours, shades and shapes. In general, mixed hedgerows appear more natural and appealing than those consisting of only one species, as they are often combinations of flowering, colourful plants with interesting shapes that require little pruning. Unpruned hedges have a tendency to develop in a somewhat more natural, informal way, which often means that their growth is less dense, but generally results in a pleasant look. The beautiful blossoms of most mixed hedges will bring a great deal of variation to your garden. Naturally, not all mixed hedges are the same: there are several combinations of species and varieties for different situations, although there is often a degree of overlap between the different mixtures. Mixed single species hedges also have their benefits: the kaleidoscopic effect of a mixed butterfly bush or potentilla hedge should not be underestimated!
We have noticed an increase in the demand for mixed hedges in recent years. We are not surprised by this, however, as mixed hedges offer the opportunity to combine the best qualities of several species to create a hedge that you will simply want to keep looking at. Many hedges have a different look for every season. Ideally, a mixed hedge will display the changing of the seasons as beautifully as possible in order to make your garden look lively and colourful throughout the entire year. The hedge plants in the mixed hedges listed on this website, have been carefully selected for their complementary qualities. But with some knowledge about the different qualities of hedging plants, you can also compile your own mixed hedge.
Creating a Mixed Hedge
While mixing hedging is not the most common form of hedging, we can assure you that the combinations described on our website will create beautiful, lively hedges. Upon seeing the results, you are likely to wonder why more people have not tried to plant these combinations before. With a basic knowledge of plants used for hedging, you could even let your creativity run wild and come up with your own complementary mix of hedging plants. The main purpose of a mixed hedge is to let different species bring out the best in each other, though a mixed hedge is also an excellent solution if you simply cannot choose between two or more species of hedging plant.
No matter if you are looking for a hedge that attracts wildlife or one that will add a little colour to your garden throughout the year, there is a mixed hedge out there that will meet your wishes perfectly. We hope that the mixed hedges suggested on our website will help you find the perfect combination for your garden.