Hedges
Hedges of various descriptions are extensively planted in connection with gardens. They may either form the boundary fence, or be intended for screens, shelter, &c. Various shrubs and plants are available for utilising, according as any one may succeed better than another, or to suit the special requirement for which the Hedge is intended. Different soils and localities must also be taken into consideration. Box, Privet, Thuja, &c., succeed almost anywhere as Hedges, the last-named doing best on rather heavy soil; but neither is suited for anything beyond a screen where there is a paling as well, or for dividing one part of a garden from another. As a boundary fence, Whitethorn and Beech, planted together when young, and afterwards kept frequently cut in, form, eventually, a Hedge which is practically impassable. Black-thorn may also be similarly used, but it has the disadvantage of throwing up quantities of suckers from creeping roots. The Myrobalan, or Cherry Plum (Prunus cerasifera) is sometimes used, and forms, when established, an excellent Hedge. It is, moreover, very attractive when in flower. Hornbeam grows quickly, and makes a capital deciduous Hedge, either for a boundary or for shelter. Common Laurel may also be planted for the purpose, but it is liable to injury from severe frosts. Yew and common Holly make the thickest and best Hedges for shelter. The former is rather slow-growing, and both succeed best on a rich, rather heavy soil. Hollies transplant readily in April or September, when of a good height; consequently, a full-sized, thick Hedge may be at once secured in necessary cases. When inserting young plants, autumn or early spring should be selected for the operation; the ground should be previously well prepared by trenching, and by the addition of a little manure, if it is poor. In the case of a Hedge which is eventually to be a boundary division for keeping cattle, &c., out of a garden inclosure, a wooden fence will be requisite for some time as well. This may be made of rough posts, with long bars fitted in them. Thorns should be cut nearly to the ground the first year, and stopped enough afterwards to keep them thick at the bottom. They should be trimmed once or twice each summer after becoming established. Holly and Yew Hedges are usually clipped, with shears, in September, when growth is completed. Broad-leaved shrubs, such as Laurels, should be cut in with a knife, in preference to shears, which sever the leaves, rendering them unsightly, and the Hedge exceedingly formal. Young Hedges are much improved, and their growth encouraged, when the soil is kept open round their roots with a hoe or fork, which also destroys weeds at the same time.