Rootball Hedging – Available October to March

Root ball hedging involves planting shrubs with their roots encased in a solid ball of soil, typically wrapped in hessian or wire mesh. This method is available from October to March and provides a cost-effective way to establish larger, well-grown hedging plants.

Root ball hedging is ideal for creating substantial hedges at a lower cost than large container-grown plants. The plants are lifted directly from the field, where they develop stronger root systems, helping them establish more successfully when planted correctly.

Availability and Ordering

Root ball hedging plants are available from October to March, with the best selections typically coming from the first diggings in October. For the freshest and most robust plants, it is advisable to place your order early.

Ordering in advance allows you to secure plants straight from the field and may include incentives for pre-orders. If you plan to collect from our nursery, please order through our website and await confirmation regarding availability.

Collection and Storage

If immediate planting is not possible, we pot root balls into compost to help retain moisture. Ordering early allows plants to be lifted fresh from the field, giving them a head start in your garden.

Transport shock can occasionally result in losses, but the cost savings compared to pot-grown plants are significant. We recommend ordering a small number of extra plants as a contingency. Rootball hedging is supplied without guarantees, so careful preparation and aftercare are essential.

Rootball Hedging vs Bare Root and Pot-Grown

Rootball hedging sits between bare root and container-grown plants in terms of size, cost and impact:

• Rootball hedging: Larger, field-grown plants available October to March, offering excellent value for instant structure.
• Bare root hedging: The most economical option, best for long hedge lines and planted during dormancy.
• Pot-grown hedging: Available year-round, but typically more expensive for larger sizes.

Hedge Plants Commonly Supplied as Rootballs

Rootball hedging is most commonly available for evergreen and conifer hedges that establish well from field-grown stock, including:

• Laurel hedging (including Cherry Laurel and Portuguese Laurel)
• Yew hedging
• Conifer hedging such as Thuja and Leylandii
• Privet hedging

Planting Rootball Hedging

Preparation: Be ready to plant as soon as your root balls arrive. If immediate planting is not possible, protect the roots by keeping them moist or temporarily covering them with soil.

Planting process:

• Dig the hole: Make the hole wider than the root ball and loosen the soil at the base and sides.
• Position the plant: Place the plant in the hole with the hessian or wire root ball left intact. The top of the root ball should sit level with the surrounding ground.
• Backfill: Refill with soil or compost, firming gently to remove air pockets.
• Leave the sacking on: Do not remove hessian or wire. These materials are designed to degrade naturally and allow roots to grow through.

For full guidance on spacing, soil preparation and aftercare, see our Hedge Planting Guide.

Special Considerations

Certain species, particularly Yew, require well-drained soil. On heavy or wet ground, improve drainage with grit or gravel and consider planting on a slight raised ridge. Avoid planting too deeply — use the original soil level from when the plant was lifted as your guide.

Post-Planting Care

• Firm soil around plants and stake taller specimens to prevent wind rock.
• Water thoroughly immediately after planting and keep plants well-watered throughout their first growing season. During dry spells, water two to three times per week.
• Clear grass and weeds from around the base to reduce competition for moisture and nutrients.

Rootball Hedging FAQs

Can rootball hedging be planted in winter?

Yes. Rootball hedging is typically planted between October and March, provided the ground is not frozen or waterlogged.

Should I remove the hessian or wire from a rootball?

No. Hessian and wire should be left in place, as they are designed to break down naturally and allow root growth.

Is rootball hedging guaranteed?

Rootball plants are freshly lifted from the field and require good planting conditions and aftercare. Losses can occur if conditions are poor, so careful preparation and watering are essential.