Bare Root Hedging: When and How to Plant a Hedge in the UK

Bare root hedging is one of the most affordable and effective ways to create a beautiful garden hedge.

Whether you’re looking to create privacy, establish a boundary, encourage wildlife or replace an old fence with something more natural, bare root hedge plants are an excellent choice.

Unlike container-grown hedging plants, bare root plants are supplied without pots or large quantities of compost around their roots.

They’re usually lifted from nursery fields during the dormant season and sold in bundles.

This makes them easier to transport and often considerably cheaper than buying established container-grown hedges.

Here at Gardening with Ben, I always encourage gardeners to make the most of autumn and winter planting opportunities.

While many people think gardening slows down during the colder months, it’s actually an excellent time to establish new hedges, trees and shrubs.

Bare root hedging can be planted during the dormant season, giving plants an opportunity to establish their root systems before the demands of summer growth.

However, successful planting depends on choosing the right varieties, preparing the soil properly and keeping the roots protected from drying out.

In this complete guide, we’ll explore when to plant bare root hedging in the UK, the best hedging plants to choose, how far apart to space them and how to plant single or double staggered rows.

We’ll also cover watering, pruning, mulching, common mistakes and how to help your new hedge establish successfully.

What Is Bare Root Hedging?

Bare root hedging consists of young hedge plants supplied without pots or an established compost root ball.

The plants are grown in nursery fields and lifted when dormant.

They are usually supplied with their roots exposed or wrapped in protective packaging to prevent drying.

Bare root hedging plants are commonly available in heights ranging from around 40 cm to more than 150 cm, depending on species and supplier.

Smaller plants are often called whips.

Benefits of Bare Root Hedging

• Usually cheaper than container-grown hedging
• Ideal for planting long boundaries
• Easier to transport in large quantities
• Wide range of native species available
• Suitable for wildlife-friendly hedges
• Can establish successfully when planted correctly
• Useful for garden and allotment boundaries

Are There Any Disadvantages?

Bare root plants are available mainly during the dormant season.

Their exposed roots must be protected from drying out, and they require careful watering during establishment.

They may also take longer to provide immediate privacy than large container-grown hedges.

When Is the Best Time to Plant Bare Root Hedging in the UK?

The usual bare root hedging planting season runs from November to March.

Exact availability depends on weather conditions and the dormancy of the plants.

November

November is often an excellent time to begin planting.

The soil may still retain some warmth from autumn, and natural rainfall can help plants settle.

December

Bare root hedging can be planted in December when the ground is workable.

Avoid planting into frozen or waterlogged soil.

January

January is suitable during mild periods.

Keep plants protected if planting is delayed by severe weather.

February

February is another good planting month.

Plants are generally still dormant, although early growth may begin during unusually mild conditions.

March

March is often the final part of the traditional bare root season.

Plant promptly before significant new growth begins.

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For many UK gardens, November through February provides an excellent planting window, provided the ground isn’t frozen or saturated.

Can You Plant Bare Root Hedging in October?

Bare root hedging is not usually available until plants have entered dormancy.

Some nurseries may begin lifting plants in late October when conditions allow.

However, November is generally a more reliable starting point.

If you want to plant earlier in autumn, container-grown hedging may be more suitable.

Can You Plant Bare Root Hedging in Summer?

Bare root hedging is generally unsuitable for summer planting.

Plants lifted with exposed roots during active growth can suffer severe water stress.

If you need to plant a hedge during summer, container-grown plants are usually the better option.

Even then, regular watering is essential.

Best Bare Root Hedging Plants for UK Gardens

There are many excellent choices for British gardens.

The best variety depends on your soil, available space, desired hedge height and whether you want an evergreen or deciduous hedge.

1. Hawthorn

Botanical name: Crataegus monogyna

Hawthorn is one of the best native hedging plants for UK gardens.

It produces white spring flowers followed by red berries in autumn.

Its thorny branches can form a dense boundary.

Benefits

• Excellent wildlife value
• Relatively fast establishment
• Attractive spring flowers
• Autumn berries for birds
• Suitable for many soil types

Best For

Native wildlife hedges, rural boundaries and allotment plots.

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Hawthorn is an excellent backbone plant for a mixed native hedge.

2. Beech

Botanical name: Fagus sylvatica

Beech is a popular choice for formal garden hedges.

Although deciduous, clipped beech hedges often retain many of their brown leaves through winter.

Benefits

• Attractive fresh green spring foliage
• Beautiful autumn colour
• Can provide some winter screening
• Responds well to regular trimming

Best For

Formal boundaries and attractive garden hedges.

Important Advice

Beech prefers reasonably well-drained soil and may struggle in persistently waterlogged ground.

3. Hornbeam

Botanical name: Carpinus betulus

Hornbeam is an excellent alternative to beech.

It tolerates heavier soils and is useful in many UK gardens.

Benefits

• Good for clay soil
• Dense growth when regularly trimmed
• Attractive autumn foliage
• Can retain some dead leaves during winter

Best For

Formal hedges, clay soil and exposed garden boundaries.

4. Blackthorn

Botanical name: Prunus spinosa

Blackthorn is a native hedging shrub with thorny branches.

It produces white flowers in early spring and dark sloes in autumn.

Benefits

• Excellent wildlife habitat
• Early flowers for pollinators
• Sloes for birds
• Dense thorny growth

Important Advice

Blackthorn can spread through suckers.

Allow enough room and manage unwanted growth.

5. Hazel

Botanical name: Corylus avellana

Hazel is a native shrub that works beautifully in mixed wildlife hedges.

It produces catkins during late winter and early spring.

Benefits

• Supports wildlife
• Attractive foliage
• Useful in mixed hedgerows
• Can produce edible nuts

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Hazel is best incorporated into an informal mixed hedge where it has sufficient space.

6. Field Maple

Botanical name: Acer campestre

Field maple is a native tree that responds well to hedge trimming.

Benefits

• Attractive autumn colour
• Suitable for mixed native hedges
• Tolerates regular pruning
• Supports wildlife

It can be an excellent addition to rural garden boundaries.

7. Dog Rose

Botanical name: Rosa canina

Dog rose is a native climbing and scrambling rose.

It produces pink or white flowers followed by red rose hips.

Benefits

• Beautiful summer flowers
• Valuable wildlife habitat
• Autumn rose hips
• Attractive informal growth

Dog rose is best included in mixed wildlife hedges rather than narrow formal hedges.

8. Holly

Botanical name: Ilex aquifolium

Holly is a native evergreen shrub.

It provides dense foliage and valuable shelter for birds.

Benefits

• Evergreen screening
• Wildlife-friendly
• Attractive glossy leaves
• Berries on suitable female plants when pollinated

Important Advice

Holly grows relatively slowly compared with many other hedging plants.

9. Privet

Botanical name: Ligustrum ovalifolium or Ligustrum vulgare

Privet is a popular hedging plant for formal gardens.

Common privet, Ligustrum vulgare, is native to Britain.

Oval-leaved privet, Ligustrum ovalifolium, is widely grown but non-native.

Benefits

• Responds well to trimming
• Can create dense screening
• Relatively quick growth
• Suitable for many garden settings

Privet may lose some or all of its foliage during severe winters.

10. Yew

Botanical name: Taxus baccata

Yew is a native evergreen conifer that makes an excellent formal hedge.

Benefits

• Dense evergreen foliage
• Long-lived
• Excellent for shaping
• Tolerates regular pruning

Important Advice

Yew is highly poisonous if eaten.

Avoid planting where children, pets or livestock may consume it.

Best Bare Root Hedging for Wildlife

If your main aim is attracting wildlife, consider a mixed native hedge.

A traditional mixed hedge might include:

• Hawthorn
• Blackthorn
• Hazel
• Field maple
• Dog rose
• Holly

This combination can provide flowers, berries, nuts and shelter throughout the year.

Why Mixed Hedges Are Good for Wildlife

Different species flower and fruit at different times.

Thorny shrubs provide nesting habitat.

Dense vegetation offers shelter for birds and small mammals.

A mixed hedge can also support a wider range of insects than a single-species boundary.

Best Bare Root Hedging for Privacy

For privacy, choose species that develop dense foliage.

Beech

Provides attractive seasonal screening and may retain dead leaves during winter.

Hornbeam

An excellent option for clay soil and formal hedges.

Privet

Can create a dense hedge with regular trimming.

Holly

Provides evergreen screening but grows more slowly.

Yew

Excellent evergreen screening where conditions are suitable.

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If immediate privacy is essential, small bare root plants may not provide screening quickly enough.

Consider the mature growth rate and the time required to establish a dense hedge.

How Far Apart Should You Plant Bare Root Hedging?

Spacing depends on species, plant size and whether you’re creating a single or double row.

General Planting Guide

Hedge type	Typical planting density
Hawthorn single row	3–5 plants per metre
Beech single row	3–4 plants per metre
Hornbeam single row	3–4 plants per metre
Privet single row	3–5 plants per metre
Mixed native double row	5–7 plants per metre total
Yew single row	2–3 plants per metre

These are general starting points.

Always follow the supplier’s recommendations for your particular plant size and hedge design.

Single Row or Double Staggered Row Hedging?

There are two common ways to plant a hedge.

Single Row Hedging

Plants are positioned in one straight line.

This is useful for:

• Narrow garden boundaries
• Formal hedges
• Smaller spaces
• Simple planting layouts

Double Staggered Row Hedging

Plants are arranged in two parallel rows, with the plants in one row positioned between those in the other.

This creates a zigzag pattern.

It is commonly used for:

• Native wildlife hedges
• Rural boundaries
• Wider hedgerows
• Dense informal planting

How Wide Should a Double Row Be?

A common starting point is approximately 30–45 cm between the two rows.

Spacing should be adjusted according to the species and supplier guidance.

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A double staggered row is particularly useful for creating a dense wildlife hedge with hawthorn and other native shrubs.

How Many Bare Root Hedge Plants Do I Need?

The easiest method is to measure your hedge length and multiply it by the recommended planting density.

Example: 5-Metre Hedge

At four plants per metre:

5 × 4 = 20 plants.

Example: 10-Metre Hedge

At five plants per metre:

10 × 5 = 50 plants.

Example: 20-Metre Hedge

At six plants per metre:

20 × 6 = 120 plants.

For double-row hedges, the stated density usually refers to the total number of plants across both rows.

Check this carefully before ordering.

How to Prepare the Ground for Bare Root Hedging

Good soil preparation is one of the most important parts of successful hedge planting.

Step 1: Remove Weeds

Remove grass and persistent perennial weeds along the planting line.

Step 2: Check Drainage

Avoid planting into waterlogged ground.

Step 3: Loosen Compacted Soil

Gently loosen compacted areas where appropriate.

Step 4: Improve Soil Where Necessary

Incorporate suitable organic matter if the soil structure is poor.

Avoid creating a small pocket of rich compost surrounded by heavily compacted soil.

Step 5: Mark the Planting Line

Use a garden line or string to create a straight boundary.

Step 6: Mark Planting Positions

Measure the spacing before digging.

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Prepare the planting area before your bare root plants arrive so the roots spend as little time exposed as possible.

How to Plant Bare Root Hedging: Step-by-Step Guide

Step 1: Unpack Your Plants

Check the plants when they arrive.

The roots should be protected and should not be allowed to dry out.

Step 2: Keep Roots Moist

Store plants in a cool, sheltered position until planting.

If planting is delayed, temporarily heel them into moist soil.

Step 3: Inspect the Roots

Check for damaged or broken roots.

Trim only clearly damaged sections with clean secateurs where necessary.

Step 4: Dig the Planting Hole

Make the hole wide enough for the roots to spread naturally.

Avoid forcing the roots into a cramped hole.

Step 5: Position the Plant

Place the plant at approximately the same depth it grew in the nursery.

Look for the original soil mark near the base of the stem.

Step 6: Spread the Roots

Arrange the roots naturally.

Avoid bending long roots sharply upwards or around the hole.

Step 7: Backfill with Soil

Return the excavated soil around the roots.

Gently firm it to remove large air pockets.

Step 8: Water Thoroughly

Water after planting, even during cooler weather if the soil is dry.

Step 9: Apply Mulch

Apply a suitable organic mulch along the hedge line.

Keep mulch away from the stems.

Step 10: Protect the Plants

Use suitable guards where rabbits, deer or other animals may damage young hedging.

Step 11: Check the Hedge Regularly

Monitor moisture, weeds and plant health during establishment.

Should You Soak Bare Root Hedging Before Planting?

If roots appear dry, soaking them briefly in clean water before planting can help rehydrate them.

However, avoid leaving roots submerged for extended periods.

Follow nursery instructions where supplied.

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Keep bare roots covered and moist while working along the planting line.

What If You Can’t Plant Bare Root Hedging Immediately?

Sometimes weather prevents planting.

Heel Plants into Soil

Dig a temporary trench in a sheltered area.

Place the roots into the trench and cover them with moist soil.

Keep Plants Cool

Avoid storing bare root plants in warm rooms.

Prevent Drying

Protect roots from wind and sunlight.

Plant as Soon as Conditions Allow

Avoid leaving plants unplanted longer than necessary.

How Deep Should Bare Root Hedging Be Planted?

Most bare root hedge plants should be planted at approximately their original nursery depth.

Planting too deeply can cause problems around the stem base.

Planting too shallowly may expose roots to drying.

Look for the original soil line on the stem.

If you’re unsure, check the supplier’s instructions.

Should You Add Fertiliser When Planting Bare Root Hedging?

Heavy fertiliser applications are generally unnecessary when planting.

Good soil preparation, suitable moisture and correct planting depth are more important.

In poor soil, a suitable slow-release fertiliser may sometimes be recommended.

However, avoid placing concentrated fertiliser directly against exposed roots.

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Focus on encouraging healthy root establishment rather than forcing rapid top growth.

How to Water Newly Planted Bare Root Hedging

Although bare root hedging is planted during cooler months, watering remains important.

Immediately After Planting

Water thoroughly if conditions allow.

During Winter

Check soil moisture during prolonged dry periods.

During Spring

Monitor plants as new growth begins.

During Summer

Water deeply when necessary, particularly during the first growing season.

Important Advice

Don’t assume winter rainfall will always provide enough moisture.

Newly planted hedges have limited root systems.

Should You Mulch Bare Root Hedging?

Yes.

Mulching can help retain soil moisture, reduce weed growth and improve soil conditions.

Suitable Mulches

• Well-rotted garden compost
• Composted bark
• Suitable wood chip

Apply a layer around the plants without piling mulch against their stems.

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Keeping a weed-free mulched strip along the hedge can make a significant difference to establishment.

When Should You Prune Bare Root Hedging?

Pruning depends on the species and the type of hedge you’re creating.

Some deciduous hedging plants benefit from formative pruning to encourage bushy growth.

Other species, including many conifers, require a different approach.

Native Deciduous Hedges

Formative pruning may encourage branching near the base.

Beech and Hornbeam

Pruning should be guided by the desired shape and plant size.

Yew

Can be shaped carefully, but avoid unnecessary severe pruning of newly planted plants.

Important Advice

Follow species-specific guidance and avoid disturbing active bird nests.

In the UK, wild bird nests are legally protected while in use or being built.

How Long Does Bare Root Hedging Take to Grow?

Growth depends on:

• Species
• Planting size
• Soil conditions
• Water availability
• Sunlight
• Exposure
• Competition from weeds

First Year

Plants concentrate on establishing their root systems.

Second Year

Growth often becomes more noticeable.

Third Year

Many hedges begin developing stronger coverage.

Later Years

Regular pruning helps maintain the desired height and density.

A dense, established hedge may take several years to develop.

How to Make Bare Root Hedging Grow Faster

The best way to encourage healthy growth is to provide suitable conditions.

Remove Competing Weeds

Grass and weeds compete for water and nutrients.

Water During Dry Weather

Young plants need reliable moisture.

Mulch Regularly

Mulch helps retain soil moisture.

Choose the Right Species

Plants suited to the soil and location generally establish more successfully.

Prune Correctly

Appropriate formative pruning encourages bushier growth.

Avoid Overfeeding

Excess fertiliser isn’t a substitute for good growing conditions.

Can You Plant Bare Root Hedging in Clay Soil?

Yes.

Many hedging plants tolerate clay soil.

Hornbeam, hawthorn and field maple can be useful choices.

However, clay soil may become waterlogged during winter.

Avoid planting when the ground is saturated.

Improve compacted soil where necessary and select species suited to the drainage conditions.

Can You Plant Bare Root Hedging in Sandy Soil?

Yes.

Sandy soil often drains quickly, so maintaining moisture during establishment is important.

Best Advice

• Add suitable organic matter where appropriate
• Apply mulch
• Water during dry periods
• Choose suitable hedging species

Can You Plant Bare Root Hedging Along a Fence?

Yes, provided there is enough room for the hedge to develop.

Consider:

• Mature hedge width
• Access for pruning
• Fence maintenance
• Root competition
• Boundary ownership
• Nearby paths and buildings

Avoid planting too close to a fence where future growth will become difficult to manage.

How to Protect Bare Root Hedging from Rabbits and Deer

Young hedge plants can be damaged by browsing animals.

Rabbit Guards

Suitable guards can protect young stems.

Tree Shelters

Some species benefit from protective shelters.

Fencing

May be necessary where deer pressure is high.

Regular Checks

Inspect guards to ensure they haven’t become damaged or restrictive.

Common Mistakes When Planting Bare Root Hedging

1. Allowing Roots to Dry Out

Exposed roots can deteriorate quickly.

2. Planting into Frozen Soil

Wait until the ground becomes workable.

3. Planting into Waterlogged Ground

Saturated soil can damage roots and soil structure.

4. Planting Too Deeply

Keep plants near their original growing depth.

5. Bending Roots into Small Holes

Dig sufficiently wide holes.

6. Forgetting to Water

New plants still need moisture.

7. Leaving Grass Around Plants

Grass competes for water and nutrients.

8. Choosing the Wrong Species

Match plants to soil and growing conditions.

9. Incorrect Plant Spacing

Follow appropriate planting density.

10. Forgetting Wildlife Protection

Young plants may need guards or fencing.

Frequently Asked Questions About Bare Root Hedging

What Is Bare Root Hedging?

Bare root hedging consists of young hedge plants supplied without pots or large compost root balls during dormancy.

When Should You Plant Bare Root Hedging in the UK?

Usually between November and March, depending on weather and dormancy.

Is November a Good Time to Plant Bare Root Hedging?

Yes. November is often an excellent planting month.

Can You Plant Bare Root Hedging in December?

Yes, provided the ground isn’t frozen or waterlogged.

Can You Plant Bare Root Hedging in January?

Yes, during suitable weather conditions.

Can You Plant Bare Root Hedging in February?

Yes. February is usually within the dormant planting season.

Can You Plant Bare Root Hedging in March?

Yes, provided plants remain dormant and nursery stock is available.

Can You Plant Bare Root Hedging in Summer?

Bare root planting is generally unsuitable during active summer growth.

How Far Apart Should You Plant Bare Root Hedging?

Spacing depends on species and planting design, often around three to five plants per metre for a single row.

How Many Bare Root Hedge Plants Do I Need for 10 Metres?

At four plants per metre, you would need 40 plants.

How Many Plants Do I Need for a Double Staggered Hedge?

Mixed native hedges are often planted at approximately five to seven plants per metre total.

What Is the Best Bare Root Hedging for Wildlife?

Hawthorn, blackthorn, hazel, field maple and dog rose are excellent choices.

What Is the Best Bare Root Hedging for Privacy?

Beech, hornbeam, privet, holly and yew are useful options.

Is Beech or Hornbeam Better for Clay Soil?

Hornbeam generally tolerates heavier soil conditions better than beech.

Does Bare Root Hedging Need Watering?

Yes, particularly during establishment and dry weather.

Should You Soak Bare Root Hedging Before Planting?

Brief soaking may help rehydrate dry roots, but avoid prolonged submersion.

Should You Add Compost When Planting?

Suitable organic matter can improve poor soil, but avoid excessive amendment confined to individual holes.

Should You Fertilise Bare Root Hedging?

Heavy fertiliser applications are usually unnecessary at planting.

How Deep Should Bare Root Hedging Be Planted?

At approximately the same depth it grew in the nursery.

Should You Mulch Bare Root Hedging?

Yes. Mulching helps retain moisture and suppress weeds.

How Long Does Bare Root Hedging Take to Establish?

Root establishment begins after planting, but a dense hedge may take several growing seasons to develop.

Is Bare Root Hedging Cheaper Than Potted Hedging?

It is usually more economical, particularly for long boundaries.

Can Bare Root Hedging Fail?

Yes. Dry roots, poor planting, unsuitable soil and inadequate watering can cause failures.

Can You Plant Bare Root Hedging in Clay Soil?

Yes, with suitable species and drainage conditions.

Can You Plant Bare Root Hedging Along a Fence?

Yes, provided there is enough room for mature growth and maintenance.

Do Bare Root Hedge Plants Need Pruning?

Many benefit from appropriate formative pruning, depending on species.

Final Thoughts: Planting Bare Root Hedging Successfully

Bare root hedging is one of the most affordable ways to create a beautiful garden boundary.

Whether you want a formal beech hedge, a dense hornbeam screen or a mixed native wildlife hedge, planting during the dormant season offers an excellent opportunity to establish new plants.

The most important thing is to choose suitable species and prepare the planting area properly.

Keep roots protected from drying out, plant at the correct depth and follow appropriate spacing recommendations.

Water thoroughly, mulch around the plants and remove competing weeds during establishment.

If you’re creating a wildlife-friendly boundary, consider combining hawthorn, blackthorn, hazel, field maple and dog rose.

For formal hedging, beech, hornbeam, privet and yew are excellent options where growing conditions are suitable.

With a little patience and regular care, your bare root plants can develop into a beautiful, healthy hedge that provides privacy, structure and wildlife habitat for many years.

Keep smiling, keep shining, keep gardening with Ben!