HEDGES AND SCREEN PLANTING 



TF boundaries are to be marked (and properties as a rule need some 

 definite outline), there is no better way of indicating it than by a 

 hedge, (hedges of all sorts, informal and undipped as well as formal and 

 clipped.) 



The w^ord usually brings to mind a long, dark, sheared wall of ever- 

 green, such, for example, as that shown in this illustration (p. 13). And, 

 all things considered, perhaps there is no more popular or all-round satis- 

 factory hedge plant than the California Privet. It is a hardy vigorous 

 grower almost anywhere, will bear close pruning at any season ; in short, 

 you can handle it about as you like, and it is nearly evergreen. 



Another handsome hedge plant is the Japan Barberry; it makes quite 

 a uniform growth, and, as a rule, looks best untrimmed; it has little 

 orange-colored blossoms, followed by the crimson fruit. 



How to Set the Hedge. To make a good, satisfactory hedge, the ground 

 should be as well prepared as for the growth of shrubs or trees, and, in digging the 

 trench for the reception of plants, the top-soil should be kept separate from the 

 clay or subsoil. Set the plants six to eight inches apart, filling in around the roots 

 with the top-soil, at the same time firming it down with the feet. After the plants 

 are set, long stable manure may be applied on top, which will answer as a mulch during 



dry weather, while stimulat- 

 ing a vigorous growth. Some 

 much prefer a double-row 

 hedge, and if such is desired 

 the trench should be wider 

 and the plants set alternately 

 at six or eight inches apart, 

 f orming,in a remarkably short 

 time, an excellent hedge. 



The first requirement of 

 a good hedge, whether for 

 beauty or for a close screen, 

 is numerous side branches 

 near to the ground, and, at time 

 of transplanting, the plants 

 should be cut back severely 

 to encourage the sprouting of 

 side growth, shortened down 

 as low as to within six in- 



A well -trimmed Privet hedge 



13 



