What's the best period of time for planting hedges?

The best time to plant Beech hedge (Fagus sylvatica), Thuja (such as Thuja occidentalis or Thuja plicata), and Photinia (commonly Photinia × fraseri ‘Red Robin’) in the garden depends on whether the plants are bare-rooted, root-balled, or container-grown, but in general, the optimal planting periods in north and western Europe are autumn (late october to december) and early spring (february to early april). Below is a detailed breakdown by plant type and root condition:

1. Beech Hedge (Fagus sylvatica or Bøgehæk)

Bare-root beech hedging:

• Best planting time: Late october to march when the plants are fully dormant and have shed their leaves. This is the traditional time for planting deciduous hedges in temperate climates.

• Why autumn is preferred: Roots can begin to establish before winter sets in, and by spring, the plant is ready to grow.

• Spring planting: Also acceptable until early april, but the risk increases that roots will not be well established before drier conditions.

Container-grown beech:

• Planting possible year-round, but avoid hot, dry summer periods. If planting in summer, ensure frequent watering.

• Best practice: Still aim for autumn to early spring, to reduce transplant shock and watering demands.

2. Thuja (Thuja)

Root-balled Thuja:

• Best planting time: october to april, with ideal months being october-november and february-march.

• Root-balled Thujas are often only available in autumn and winter, because they can only be lifted and transplanted when dormant.

• Important note: Planting when the soil is not frozen or excessively wet is crucial.

Container-grown Thuja:

• Can be planted all year round, but avoid hot and dry months (june to august).

• Best period remains autumn and spring, when the soil is moist, and root establishment is easiest.

General Thuja notes:

• Thuja prefers moist, well-drained soils, and roots should never be allowed to dry out after planting.

• Watering is critical during the first season, especially for spring and summer plantings.

3. Photinia (Photinia)

Container-grown only:

• Photinia is semi-evergreen to evergreen, and almost always sold in containers. Bare-rooted or root-balled options are rare and not recommended.

• Best planting period: march to may and september to early november.

• Avoid mid-winter planting (especially during frost periods) as Photinia can suffer from root damage and leaf drop.

• Avoid planting in summer unless absolutely necessary, and then only with consistent watering.

Spring vs Autumn:

• Spring planting is slightly preferred in colder regions, because Photinia dislikes cold wet feet after autumn planting.

• However, early autumn (september) planting is also excellent because the soil is still warm, promoting root growth before winter dormancy.

Comparative summary table

Plant TypeRoot ConditionBest Planting PeriodNotesBeechBare-rootLate Oct – early MarAvoid frozen groundContainer-grownMar – Nov (ideally spring/autumn)Needs watering in summerThujaRoot-balledOct – AprOnly available dormantContainer-grownMar – Nov (not summer)Ensure moisturePhotiniaContainer-grownMar – May or Sep – NovAvoid frost and summer heat

Additional planting tips for all types

• Soil preparation: Always loosen soil to a depth of 30–40 cm, incorporate compost, and ensure proper drainage.

• Mulching: Apply mulch after planting to retain moisture and suppress weeds, but keep away from direct stem contact.

• Watering: Water thoroughly at planting and continue watering during dry spells for the first 1–2 years.

• Spacing: Respect recommended spacing. For example:

  • Beech hedge: 4-5 plants per meter (double staggered row is best).

  • Thuja: 2-3 plants per meter depending on size.

  • Photinia: 1-2 plants per meter depending on desired density.

• For beech, aim for November to early March with bare-root stock.

• For Thuja, October to April is best for root-balled; container-grown can go spring or autumn.

• For Photinia, use spring or early autumn—avoid winter due to cold sensitivity and summer due to heat stress.

Timing closely linked to root type, soil conditions, and climate. Autumn planting is generally more forgiving and leads to better root establishment by spring, but each species has nuances to consider.