Fagus sylvatica Duo contains a classic mix of green and copper beech that is perfect for screens, hedging or specimen trees. Beech can be grown to almost any height required and will maintain a good density and tidy form, only needing to be clipped once or twice a year. Its growth forms a thick, interwoven hedge that is ideal for security as well as looking extremely decorative. In autumn, the leaves turn a gorgeous copper colour and although beech are deciduous, regularly trimmed hedges retain most of their old leaves over winter continuing to provide a screen until regrowth in spring. Height: 12m (40ft). Spread: 8m (26ft). Planting distance: 30cm (12in). (4 plants per metre for a single line hedge).
Growing Information
Plant beech hedging in fertile, well drained soil. Fagus hedging is suitable for positions in full sun or partial shade.
These plants are lifted from the nursery field when dormant, and sent to you in late autumn or spring for planting. They should be planted as soon as possible on arrival. They often look dead on receipt, but they are just resting in the dormant period and will establish quickly for a strong start in the garden come spring. Set out in prepared soil in holes wide enough and deep enough to lay out the roots. Tread down the planting soil to knock out air pockets. Water well to settle. Apply a mulch to protect roots from cold temperatures. If conditions prevent immediate planting, set roughly into loose soil or a pot of compost (‘heeling in’) to protect the roots. Set these at the same level as they were in the nursery field – you should see a soil line at the base of the stem. Stake trees, taller shrubs and roses to prevent root disturbance.
