Taxus baccata – Timeless Evergreen Hedging for Structure and Sophistication

Taxus baccata, commonly known as English Yew, is a classic evergreen conifer cherished for its dense, fine-textured foliage, longevity, and elegant form. Revered in formal and contemporary gardens alike, Yew hedging offers year-round structure, deep green colour, and effortless refinement.

Whether clipped into neat, architectural lines or allowed a softer, natural shape, Yew is unmatched for creating beautiful, long-lived hedges that define and elevate any outdoor space.

Why Grow Yew Hedging?

1. Classic Evergreen Elegance
Dark, glossy green needles create a rich backdrop for borders and planting schemes, providing structure and colour in every season.

2. Dense and Formal Structure
Naturally bushy and tightly packed, Yew forms an excellent screen or boundary hedge. Its fine foliage clips cleanly, allowing for precise shapes and crisp edges.

3. Long-Lived & Resilient
A symbol of longevity, Yew can live for centuries and is remarkably resilient once established, tolerating pruning, shade, and urban conditions.

4. Wildlife Value
Although toxic to humans and pets, Yew’s bright red arils (fleshy seed coverings) are loved by birds, and its dense growth provides valuable nesting and shelter.

5. Versatile & Adaptable
Equally at home in formal gardens, country estates, or urban courtyards, Yew thrives in sun or shade and adapts to many soil types.

How to Grow Yew Hedging

Position:
Thrives in full sun or partial shade. Excellent for shady gardens or north-facing aspects where many hedging plants struggle.

Soil:
Prefers well-drained, fertile soil, but tolerates a wide range of conditions once established. Avoid waterlogged ground.

Watering:
Water regularly in the first season to help roots establish. Mature plants are drought-tolerant and low-maintenance.

Pruning:
Trim once or twice a year (typically late summer) to maintain shape and density. Yew responds well even to hard pruning, rejuvenating old or neglected hedges.

Growth Habit:
Slow-growing and densely branched, Yew typically grows 20–30 cm per year. Mature hedges range from 1 m to over 4 m tall, depending on pruning and spacing.

Hardiness:
Fully hardy across the UK (H6), with excellent resistance to frost and wind.

Design Ideas

• Create formal garden structure with low, medium, or tall clipped hedges.

• Use as a privacy screen or windbreak with year-round coverage.

• Shape into topiary forms for classic or contemporary designs.

• Plant as a backdrop for flowering shrubs and perennials to enhance colour contrast.

Final Thought

With its deep green foliage, timeless appeal, and unmatched versatility, Taxus baccata is the gold standard for evergreen hedging. Long-lived, easy to maintain, and beautifully sculptural, Yew transforms gardens into spaces of structure, elegance, and enduring style.

Guide to Planting Field-Grown Root Balled Plants

Pros:

1. Established Roots: Typically stronger, established roots ensure better initial growth.
2. Immediate Impact: Larger plants provide instant structure and aesthetics.

Cons:

1. Heavy and Bulky: Can be difficult to transport and plant due to size and weight.
2. Seasonal Availability: Generally available only in the dormant season (autumn to early spring).

Preparation for Planting:

1. Unwrap Carefully: Remove any packaging material, but leave the burlap or wire basket on.
2. Keep plants moist: Plants should be kept moist until the time of planting.

Planting Process:

1. Dig a Hole: Make a hole twice the width of the root ball and the same depth.
2. Position Plant: Place the root ball in the hole, ensuring the top is level with the ground surface.
3. Do Not Remove Root Sack: Leave the burlap or wire basket around the root ball. It is bio degradable and will rot away naturally.
4. Backfill: Fill the hole with soil, firming gently around the roots to eliminate air pockets.
5. Water: Water deeply after planting to settle the soil and avoid wilting.

Possibility of Losses:

• Initial Shock: Some plants may suffer transplant shock, leading to potential losses.
• Mitigation: Proper care and consistent watering during the establishment phase can minimise this risk.

Main Causes of Failure:

1. Improper Planting Depth: Planting too deep or too shallow can stress the roots.
2. Poor Soil Conditions: Compacted or poorly drained soil can hinder root growth.
3. Insufficient Watering: Both under-watering and over-watering can lead to plant stress and failure. Strong wind can dry leafy pants.
4. Pest and Disease: Lack of protection and monitoring can result in damage from pests and diseases.

Tips for Success:

1. Stake Larger Plants: Support with stakes to prevent wind damage.
2. Mulch: Apply a layer of mulch around the base to retain moisture and regulate temperature.
3. Regular Monitoring: Check for signs of stress, pests, and disease, and address them promptly.

By following these guidelines and providing consistent aftercare, you can successfully plant and establish field-grown root balled plants in your garden.

Yew Hedging 175/200cm Root Ball Grasslands Nursery Slow Growing Evergreen

Does the height include the pot?

No, we measure from the top of the pot to the tip of the plant except for some of the instant planted screens, in this case it will be stated in the description

How long does delivery take?

Most orders are delivered in just a few days, Smaller items are often sent with Parcelforce on a next day service, Larger items should allow up to 10 days due to the size of the items they often have to be sent on our own transport.

Where will you leave my plants?

We will leave your order at the front of your property, Parcelforce may
leave your items in a safe place if you let us know, Pallet couriers
will require a flat hard surface to deliver to, no gravel or soil, a
driveway or parking spot would be best. Most importantly Deliveries by
pallet courier will require access for a large truck (bin lorry sized)
to get near the delivery point. Deliveries sent on our own transport may come in a small van or larger truck.