Hedges can be planted for many different reasons: to provide shelter, to create structure, privacy and floral interest. To ensure that the hedge will be permanent and long-lasting, a few basics must be adhered to from the start.  Hedges can include factors such as fragrance, flower (Camellia), berry (Ilex) or fruit production - as an alternative to Buxus for low growing hedges, try Blueberries – they are colourful and productive too.   

It is important to choose plants that are hardy and that are suited to the local soil type and the climate. It is essential that the type of plant selected loves to be trimmed and pruned as this is exactly what its fate is going to be over the years. Those plants with smaller leaves that are quick growing are ideal, as are the more dense plants such as Conifers.