[Macy]

I'm looking at planting an informal hedge to divide the garden, and also act as another layer of security. Was thinking of a mix of Berberis Darwinni and Pyracantha - prickly, evergreen, flowering and berries (which I assume the birds will eat?)

I would also be looking to mix in a few decidous shrubs such as forsythia, dogwoods, rose's to provide a bit more interest.

I would be planning on pruning, rather than clipping - treating it more like a closely planted shrub border than a formal clipped hedge if that makes sense?

So my main questions would be over the hardiness of the two main plants I was thinking off? The berberis would be common enough, so I'd say it'll take the frost, but worried about how much exposure it'd take? I was planning on wind protection netting on the west side which should provide some protection from the westerlies. But really not sure on the Pyracantha. I'm at just under 800ft up on quite an exposed site?

The other thing would be over the best place to get the plants, as it'll be up on 50 odd plants (although this could be answered on the other thread).

Any help gratefully recieved, as would be other plant suggestions if necessary. I already have native hedging planted, so really want something more attractive yet still functional within the garden. TVM

[GPI]

Have a look at this sticky while you are at it Macy http://www.gardenplansireland.com/forum/viewtopic.php?t=204

[Macy]

Yeah, probably should've checked them first alright

[Bugs]

Pyracantha is the best plant for security as the thorns are lethal , however it is usually grown along a wall as it needs support , this might be awkward in the middle of a garden ,
For variety consider different types of Berberis , eg Darwinii , Thunbergii , Stenophylla . Mahonia is also very thorny . Rosa Rugosa for colour ,
Bugs

[birdie]

Macy you should definatly include the wild roses in your hedge mix. They will give you colour, scent, berry and thorn.