Grab is one of the most valuable hedge trees. It is almost flawless.As a native species, it is perfectly adapted to the weather conditions prevailing in Poland, tolerates shading very well (it is the most shade-loving domestic species), tolerates pruning very well, and loses only part of its leaves for winter, therefore it fulfills its basic task, which is to shield the property.
The hornbeam is suitable for hedges, high rows and divinets. It is recommended for the fencing of orchards, utility and ornamental gardens. In old palace parks, it creates entire systems of labyrinths, gazebos and other ornamental forms.It is best to set up a hornbeam hedge from young bare-rooted plants.You can also choose potted plants, although they are much more expensive.
We plant trees in spring. A characteristic feature of the hornbeam is the production of root suckers, thanks to which the hedge becomes denser over the years.Hornbeam grows well in any average garden soil.
Planting a hornbeam hedge
1. The planting hole should be one and a half times the size of the root ball.The soil at the bottom of the hole needs to be moved.On heavy soils, drain gravel in the hole. We plant the trees to the same depth as they grew in the nursery.
2. Already at the planting stage, knead the soil around the plants so that the roots have the best contact with the ground. Finally, we tread the ground.Young hornbeams are to be planted in one line.
3. Water the planted trees abundantly.
4.The first cut is made at the planting stage.Shoots can be shortened to 2/3 of their height, in some cases even by half (we do not cut potted seedlings).
We cut from an early age
When caring for a hornbeam hedge, it is worth remembering that trees are not pruned in spring, because they cry profusely, which means they give off a large amount of juice.This also applies to plantings of common beech, linden, and field maple.These plants are best pruned from June to August. An additional benefit of such late pruning is that young shoots do not lose leaves so profusely, and therefore, even after drying, they stick to the shoots.
The first cut after planting is especially important, because the future appearance of the hedge depends on it.Remember to use only sharp tools for cutting.Dull blades leave wounds jerky, which scar worse and are more susceptible to infections.
