What is a Holly Hedge?
A Holly hedge (or Holly hedging) is a stunning and functional addition to any garden, formed by closely planted Holly hedge plants. Renowned for their glossy, deep green leaves and vibrant red berries, Holly hedges provide year-round interest and act as effective security barriers due to their prickly nature.
Why Choose a Holly Hedge?
- Evergreen: Provides privacy and structure throughout the year.
- Wildlife Haven: Offers food and shelter for birds with its abundant berries.
- Low Maintenance: Requires minimal pruning once established.
- Impenetrable Barrier: Deters unwanted guests with its prickly foliage.
- Classic Beauty: Adds a touch of traditional charm to your garden, especially during the festive season.
Why Choose The Tree & Hedge Company for Your Holly Hedge Needs?
We are a leading supplier of high-quality Holly instant hedges. Our team of experts can assist you in choosing the perfect hedge for your requirements, ensuring it flourishes in your garden. Contact The Tree & Hedge Company for a seamless hedge experience.
Our Services:
- Supply: We offer a wide variety of hedge options for your property.
- Delivery: We ensure your chosen hedge is delivered safely and securely to your property.
- Installation: Our experienced professionals can handle the hedge planting process for a perfect and healthy hedge.
A Holly hedge is an excellent choice for those seeking a beautiful, low-maintenance, and wildlife-friendly addition to their garden. The Tree & Hedge Company provides everything you need to establish a thriving hedge, from supply and delivery to expert installation.
Contact us today for a free quote and let’s discuss how an instant hedge can transform your garden.
FAQ's
Does Holly make a good hedge?
Yes, holly can make a good hedge. Here are some reasons why:
- Evergreen: Holly is an evergreen shrub, which means it keeps its leaves year-round which provides you with year-round privacy and screening.
- Slow growth: Holly has a slow growth rate, which means it requires less frequent trimming than other hedge plants.
- Shade tolerant: Holly can tolerate some shade, making it a good choice for areas that don’t get full sun.
- Wildlife-friendly: Holly provides food and shelter for birds and other wildlife. The berries are a food source for many birds, while the dense foliage provides shelter for small animals.
How to prune a Holly hedge?
Pruning a holly hedge involves maintaining its shape and encouraging healthy growth. Here’s a general guide:
Tools:
- Sharp hand pruners or hedge shears
- Loppers (optional, for thicker branches)
- Gloves (recommended due to spiky leaves)
Steps:
- Timing: Prune holly hedges in late winter or early spring (around February-March). Avoid pruning during hot summer months or late fall when new growth is forming.
- Shaping: Aim for a trapezoidal shape, with the base wider than the top. This allows sunlight to reach lower branches and prevents the hedge from becoming leggy.
Pruning cuts:
- New growth: Trim up to ⅓ of the current year’s growth on outward-facing branches.
- Shaping: Make cuts angled upwards (45°) just above a bud or leaf node. This encourages new growth in the desired direction and promotes a bushier appearance.
- Thinning: Remove dead, diseased, or overcrowded branches entirely. Prioritise removing branches from the interior to improve air circulation.
- Hedge height: Maintain the desired height by carefully trimming the top. Avoid drastic cuts, especially on older hedges.
Remember, consulting a local gardening professional can provide specific recommendations based on your holly variety and desired hedge style.
Are Holly berries poisonous?
Yes, holly berries are poisonous. While they are unlikely to be fatal, they can cause stomach upset and other issues if ingested.
- Children are especially susceptible due to their smaller body size and tendency to put things in their mouths.
- Even small amounts, as few as 2-3 berries, can cause problems.
The poisonous compound in holly berries is called saponin which can irritate the digestive system.
Here are some of the symptoms of holly berry poisoning:
- Nausea
- Vomiting
- Diarrhea
- Stomach cramps
- Dehydration
- Drowsiness
Important: If you suspect someone has ingested holly berries, seek medical attention immediately.
Soils
Location
Annual Growth Rate
pH TOLERANCE
Root Structure
Potential
Annual Trimming
Characteristics
Availability
Season
Instant Hedge
Sizing
1.2m –
1.5m –
1.8m –
2.0m –
1.2m
1.5m
1.8m
2.0m
Hedge Elements
Sizing
1.2m –
1.5m –
1.8m –
2.0m –
2.5m –
3.0m – 6.0m+ –
1.2m
1.5m
1.8m
2.0m
2.5m
3.0m – 6.0m+
Hedge Plants
Sizing
0.8m –
1.2m –
1.5m –
1.8m –
2.0m –
2.5m –
3.0m – 6.0m+ –
0.8m
1.2m
1.5m
1.8m
2.0m
2.5m
3.0m – 6.0m+
Prices are to give a general indication of cost for premium mature trees and Hedges. Additional costs for delivery, installation & maintenance should be considered. For a bespoke project cost please contact our dedicated sales team for expert advice & a fixed quotation.
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If you have any questions, or if you’d like to order; speak to our friendly team today!