Description
Leylandii Hedge
Britain’s most popular evergreen hedges include the leylandii with around 55 million leylandii hedges in the UK.
The Leylandii is a magnificent and irreplaceable plant and none of the negative press it has received has been down to the plant itself, but to it being planted in inappropriate locations and/or to it being left to grow unchecked. Most homeowners like privacy in their garden and home, and many search around for the perfect hedge to create screening. But purchasing evergreen hedges isn’t as straightforward as it may sound and there are a growing number of cases where neighbours are falling into disagreement around over-sized leylandii hedges blocking sunlight or reaching across boundaries.
So, what is the solution and what are the best types of hedges to plant if you want a fast-growing evergreen hedge in your garden that is suitable for you and your neighbours? Luckily, there are many hedges to choose from, including not only leylandii hedges, but also laurel hedges, red cedar, box hedging and more.
The Leylandii is a cross between the tough Chamaecyparis and the tender but fast growing Cupressus that occurs naturally when the two plants are grown in close proximity. The result in an exceptionally hardy – and quick growing – plant. In fact, no popular hedging plant grows faster, making it a must have for the impatient. However, once it has achieved the desired (and suitable) height, maintaining it is simple – prune with clippers or an electric trimmer in late summer, preferably August. Do that and you will soon have a handsome, dense and robust evergreen garden hedge. However, the Leylandii is prone to aphid attack, leaving large dead brown patches.
Leylandii, various sizes
Foliage Type: Evergreen
Hardiness: ✯✯✯✯✯
Ease of maintenance: ✯✯✯✯✯
Versatility: ✯✯✯✯
Drought Resistance: ✯✯✯✯
Soil type: Acid or Alkaline
Wet/Dry: Both
Preferred situation: Sun
Height: 30m
Growth Rate: Fast – No hedging plant grows faster than Leylandii (75cm – 90cm a year)
Soil and Situation: Most soils and a sunny location.
Maintenance: Pruning in late summer, preferably August, is essential but simple. Once the desired height has been achieved, prune annually to maintain.
Versatility: Leylandii’s versatility rests in its ability to achieve great height – and in the ease with which we can determine and maintain that height.
