How to Install Hedging Screens

Hedging screens are living fences that offer privacy, security, and beauty to landscape boundaries, they are a popular alternative to metal privacy screens. These green barriers consist of shrubs that grow together to form a dense instant hedge. Installing your own green living fences is an achievable DIY project that can add function and beauty to your outdoor space.

In this guide, we’ll walk you through the complete process including tools needed, site preparation, planting techniques, and ongoing maintenance. With proper guidance, you can create a thriving hedge that grows into a durable garden screen. Follow the steps in this guide to plan and install a functional and beautiful instant hedging solution in your own landscape.

THINGS YOU'LL NEED

• Shovels or Garden Trowel: Use for digging the trench for the hedge. Consider rounded point shovels to avoid damaging tree roots.
• Ready Grown Hedging Screens: Choose from popular evergreen hedera helix to beautiful star jasmine.
• Wooden or Steel Posts & Fixing Brackets: Provide support for hedging screens and increase sturdiness.
• Measuring Tap and Level: Measure and lay out the planting arrangement and spacing for the hedge.
• Watering Can or Hose: Use to water newly installed plants until the irrigation system is set up.
• Compost/Fertiliser: Mix compost or organic granular fertilizers into the soil to provide nutrients.
• Edging Materials (optional): Use plastic, metal or masonry edging to define the hedge bed.

PREPARE THE SITE

Proper site preparation is key prior to installing the hedging screen. Follow these steps for optimal growth:

• Check the underground area

Proper soil preparation is crucial for robust root development and healthy plant growth. Avoid planting your hedging screen above any concrete, rubble or disruptive layers that may hinder root spread. Roots need adequate unobstructed space and confined roots can damage plants.

• Assess drainage

Find an evenly moist site and avoid boggy, poorly drained areas. Standing water can drown plants whilst lean and dry areas may also dehydrate plants. Install subsurface drainage pipes or gravel if screens will be in low areas or spots where water collects. This prevents root rot.

• Position carefully

Avoid placing your hedging screens directly against walls or foundations. Leave a minimum 50mm distance for airflow and growth. Avoid the highest point where rain drains away.

INSTALL THE HEDGING SCREENS

1. Dig a 400mm wide and 400mm deep trench and loosen the soil at the bottom of the trench.
2. Place wooden or metal posts approximately 1250mm (maximum 1300mm) apart along the trench.
3. Install fixing brackets on wooden or metal posts and adjust the number of brackets based on the height of your plants. You'll need 4 brackets for a 1200x 1800mm hedging and 6 brackets for a 1200x 2200mm hedging.
4. The top bracket should be mounted at the top wire of the mesh (approx.250mm from the top) while the lower bracket should be mounted at the centre of the mesh (approx.1000mm above ground level).
5. Place the instant hedging units between the posts and secure them to the posts using the brackets.
6. Fill the trench with soil combined with compost, and ensure the coconut container is kept at ground level. Hedging screens can be planted all year round, but when installing hedging screens during summer and spring, add fertiliser with an NPK ration (12-10-18) to the soil.
7. Press the soil firmly around the coconut container to ensure the root ball is in contact with the ground.

PROVIDING ONGOING CARE

After planting your living green screens, water them consistently until established. Fertilize in spring to encourage growth. Prune annually for shape and thickness. Address disease or pest problems promptly. To learn about how to maintain your green fence, read our detailed hedging screen maintenance guide.

With the right planning and care, you can install a flourishing hedging screen to enhance beauty, privacy and ambience in your landscape.