WHat hedge to plant under established old hedge

MeathMan

Hi, I have a boundary hedge thats facing west so it gets afternoon sun. Its a vast mixture of trees, whitethorn, Ivy, and loads of stuff that I dont recognise(because I dont know anything about hedges). Its very old and established but its very weak at the bottom. I actually filled in(and piped) a ditch that it was hanging over. I'd like to plant something that could flourish and would fill in the bottom of the existing hedge and grow up into it. Can anyone give me any suggestions please?

Thanks

MM

Sive · Posted: Mon Apr 25, 2011 8:21 am Post subject:

It sounds like a job for a hedge-layer.....or you could always go on a hedge-laying course....that is how existing hedges are renewed and rejuvenated most effectively.

MeathMan · Posted: Thu May 05, 2011 8:54 pm Post subject:

michael brenock · Posted: Thu May 05, 2011 10:05 pm Post subject:

Planting another hedge beside an existing established one is seldom successful mainly because of the competition from roots and overhang. The further inside you can go the better the chance of success.
michael brenock horticultural advisor (retired)

MeathMan · Posted: Fri May 06, 2011 5:50 pm Post subject:

Thanks. Maybe I'll move it in a little

Sedum and Sage · Posted: Mon May 23, 2011 3:21 pm Post subject:

I planted small holly plants at the base of an old hedge similar to what you are describing, they took a long time to get going (holly is very slow growing) but after about 5 or 6 years they had filled out a lot, and now 10 years later they look great, and we even had a few berries last winter.

MeathMan · Posted: Mon May 23, 2011 9:20 pm Post subject:

Thanks. I'm thinking of using whitethorn. I like it and I believe it'll grow anywhere