Bare root hedging remains one of the most cost-effective and environmentally friendly ways to establish a new hedge. Popular with homeowners, landscapers, developers, and landowners alike, bare root plants offer an economical solution for creating attractive boundaries, wildlife habitats, and privacy screens.
At Tree Heritage Nursery, we supply a range of hedging plants suitable for both domestic and commercial projects across the UK. Native species such as Hawthorn, Hornbeam, and Beech are particularly popular for bare root planting, helping to create long-lasting and natural-looking hedgerows.
While bare root hedging is relatively straightforward to plant, careful preparation and aftercare will help ensure successful establishment and healthy growth for years to come.
Prepare the Ground Before Planting
Successful hedging starts with good ground preparation. Before planting, remove weeds, grass, and other competing vegetation from the planting area. Young hedge plants need access to moisture, nutrients, and light as they establish, and excessive competition can slow growth significantly.
Once the area has been cleared, loosen the soil along the hedge line. This will make it easier for roots to spread and establish. If the soil is particularly compacted or lacking organic matter, incorporating well-rotted compost or soil improver can help improve growing conditions.
Taking the time to prepare the site properly often results in stronger growth and a healthier hedge during the first few years after planting.
Handle Bare Root Plants Carefully
Bare root hedging is typically planted during the dormant season, from late autumn through to early spring. During this period, plants can be lifted and transported without soil around their roots, making them more affordable and easier to handle.
Although dormant, the roots should never be allowed to dry out. If planting cannot take place immediately after delivery, keep the roots covered and stored in a cool, sheltered location. For longer delays, plants can be temporarily heeled into loose soil until they are ready to be planted.
Maintaining moisture around the roots before planting is one of the most important factors in ensuring successful establishment.
Dig a Suitable Planting Trench
For longer hedges, digging a continuous trench is often quicker and more practical than creating individual planting holes. The trench should be wide enough to accommodate the root systems comfortably without bending or crowding them.
When planting, it is important not to position plants too deeply. A useful guide is to identify the soil mark on the stem where the plant was previously growing. This should generally sit level with the surrounding ground once planted.
Correct planting depth encourages healthy root development and reduces the risk of future problems.
Spacing and Planting
The ideal spacing will depend on the species being planted and the type of hedge you want to create.
For native hedging species such as Hawthorn (Crataegus monogyna), Hornbeam (Carpinus betulus), and Beech (Fagus sylvatica), closer spacing typically produces a denser hedge more quickly. Wider spacing may be suitable where a more informal boundary is desired.
As each plant is positioned, spread the roots naturally within the trench before backfilling with soil. Firm the soil gently around the roots to remove air pockets and create good root-to-soil contact, taking care not to over-compact the ground.
Watering and Early Aftercare
Although bare root plants are installed during the dormant season, watering remains important. After planting, water thoroughly to settle the soil around the roots and remove any remaining air pockets.
During the first growing season, monitor soil moisture regularly, particularly during dry periods in spring and summer. Newly planted hedges are often more vulnerable to drought stress than established specimens.
Keeping the area around the hedge free from weeds can significantly improve establishment rates. Applying a mulch around the base of the plants can also help retain moisture and suppress unwanted weed growth.
Give Your Hedge Time to Establish
Newly planted bare root hedging can appear sparse initially, particularly during the first season after planting. This is completely normal.
Much of the plant's energy during the early stages is directed towards root development rather than visible top growth. As the root system establishes, the plants will gradually fill out and begin to knit together into a dense and attractive hedge.
With proper planting and routine maintenance, species such as Hawthorn, Hornbeam, and Beech can provide decades of structure, privacy, and wildlife value.
Supporting Trade and Professional Projects
Tree Heritage Nursery works with a wide range of trade buyers across the UK, including landscape architects and designers, professional gardeners and horticulturists, commercial landscapers, and property developers.
Whether you are planting a residential boundary, a commercial development, or a large-scale landscaping scheme, our team can assist with species selection, quantities, and delivery arrangements to help ensure your project runs smoothly.
Order Hedging Plants Online with UK-Wide Delivery
At Tree Heritage Nursery, we supply a carefully selected range of high-quality hedging plants suitable for gardens, estates, developments, and commercial landscaping projects throughout the UK.
You can order online for convenient nationwide delivery, or contact our experienced team if you have any questions about choosing the right hedging plants for your project. We are always happy to provide expert advice and help you find the most suitable solution for your planting requirements.