There are always mixed emotions when summer ends and autumn begins. For some of us autumn means winter is just around the corner and what gardener enjoys a cold and wet winter? Others think about the jobs they wished they had finished, or even started, in summer.

Autumn though shouldn’t be seen as that awkward gap between summer and winter. Nor should it only be seen as the time to tidy, organise and just batten down the hatches for the bad weather which is inevitably on its way. In fact, autumn is a great time for planting. And, specifically, it really is the ideal time to plant new hedging.

Why autumn is perfect for planting a hedge

Though summer may officially be over the soil will still be warm. Especially now that September and even October is so much milder than used to be the case. But the ground will also have lots of moisture from the summer rains. All of which creates the ideal conditions for planting a hedge.

Another great reason why autumn is the perfect time for planting a hedge is that from around October root ball hedging plants become available.

What is root ball hedging?

In autumn and winter specialist nurseries such as Direct Plants produce root ball plants, trees and shrubs. The plants are supplied without a pot but with their root system in place. The plant is lifted from the ground with a ‘ball’ of soil surrounding the root. Hence root ball. This can only be done in the coldest months of the year when the plant is dormant. These hedging plants will be delivered to you with protective sacking or wrapping around the root ball which will naturally decompose over time.

At Direct Plants our root ball hedging is only available between October and March though you are able to pre-order. So do keep an eye on our website. By offering root ball hedging we’re able to offer you a far greater choice of plant. And, along with pot grown and instant troughs, you’re able to choose from a wide range of popular and unusual hedging.

Planting your new hedge

Before planting, probably before ordering your plants, dig over the soil. This not only loosens the soil it also allows air to get into the ground. Add some mulch and you’re ready to go. But do make sure you give your hedging plants a watering a few hours before planting.

The hole you dig for the plant should be around double the size of the root ball. It should be deep enough to pop in the plant and for it to be level with the ground. Fill in the hole with compost and compact the earth to remove any trapped pockets of air. Finally, give the hedging a good watering.

Once planted the hedge will settle in over the autumn months ready to sprout up once spring arrives.

Which hedging should you plant in autumn?

You can choose from root ball, pot grown or hedging troughs. We have many different varieties ranging from the traditional box and leylandii to the more exotic red robin and western red cedar. And don’t forget the typical British holly or yew. 

If you need any further information or help with choosing your hedging this autumn don’t hesitate to send an email to sales@directplants.co.uk and we’ll be only too happy to help.