Beech make excellent formal garden hedges that are easily recognized during the winter months by means of the dead leaves that remain on the branches through until spring. The leaves will then be replaced by new, shiny, wavy edged 4-9cm lime-green leaves.
As the foliage matures through the summer, the leaves turn a darker green and become leathery. At the end of summer, the beech foliage begins to change, first to yellow and then to a rustic, reddish-brown. This foliage remains on the branches throughout the winter months retaining a screen and giving privacy whilst the hedge is dormant.
The pruning of beech hedges can take place throughout the growing season and should always include a trim at the end of summer which will assist leaf retention in the winter. Like hornbeam, beech responds exceptionally well to pruning and is a popular horticulturalist’s choice for creating topiary.
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Beech hedges withstand exposed sites in full sun or partial shade and prefer moist, but well-drained soil. Heavy clays soils or locations subject to prolonged periods of waterlogging should be avoided.