Carpinus betulus – Hornbeam Hedging 125/150cm Bare Root

Hornbeam (Carpinus betulus) is one of the most reliable and versatile choices for creating hedging. Its dense, fine-textured foliage emerges fresh green in spring, deepens through summer, and turns golden-yellow to copper in autumn. Even after leaf fall, many of the dry, coppery leaves cling to the branches through winter, giving structure and screening when other deciduous hedges are bare.

This makes hornbeam particularly valued for privacy hedging, field boundaries, and formal garden settings. Tolerant of clipping, it forms a neat, easily managed hedge that responds well to regular trimming.

Unlike beech, hornbeam is highly adaptable to heavy soils and thrives even in clay or damp ground. It is hardy, wind-tolerant, and copes well in exposed sites, making it a superb choice for both town and countryside planting.

Why Choose Hornbeam Hedging?

• Year-Round Structure – Retains leaves into winter for screening.

• Soil Tolerance – Thrives on clay and heavier soils where beech may struggle.

• Hardy & Wind-Resistant – Stands up well in exposed sites.

• Versatile Use – Ideal for formal hedging or natural screening.

Planting & Care Guide

• Position: Full sun to partial shade.

• Soil: Any well-drained to heavy soils, including clay.

• Planting Distance: 3–4 plants per metre in a single row, or 5–7 per metre in a double staggered row for a dense screen.

• Watering: Keep moist during establishment; tolerant once settled.

• Pruning: Trim once or twice annually to maintain a dense, neat shape.

Pros:

1. Cost-Effective: Bare root plants are generally cheaper than potted plants.
2. Variety: Greater selection of species available.
3. Establishment: Often establish quickly in the garden.

Cons:

1. Timing: Must be planted during the dormant season (late autumn to early spring).
2. Initial Care: Require careful handling and timely planting.

Preparation for Planting:

1. Soak Roots: Immerse the roots in water for a few hours before planting to rehydrate them.
2. Inspect: Trim any damaged roots with clean, sharp scissors.
3. Dig Hole: Ensure the hole is wide enough to spread roots out without bending them.
4. Consider Cutting back: Cutting back by up to 1/3, especially on taller plants will reduce possible losses and improve plant establishment.

Planting Process:

1. Plant Depth: Plant at the same depth they were grown in the nursery, indicated by the soil mark on the stem.
2. Fill Hole: Backfill with soil, ensuring no air pockets around the roots.
3. Water: Water thoroughly after planting to settle the soil around the roots.

Possibility of Losses:

• Adjustment Period: Some plants may not survive the transition due to transplant shock or poor initial care.
• Mitigation: Proper planting techniques and aftercare, like regular watering and mulching, can reduce losses.

Aftercare Tips:

1. Watering: Keep the soil moist but not waterlogged during the establishment period.
2. Mulching: Apply mulch around the base to retain moisture and suppress weeds.
3. Protection: Protect young plants from extreme weather and pests.

Bare root planting is a straightforward, economical way to enhance your garden, provided you follow these essential steps to ensure successful establishment.

Full Guide to planting bare root can be found here

Hornbeam Hedging 125/150cm Bare Root Delivery Jan/Feb Grasslands Nursery

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.