How to Plant a Hedge: Step-by-Step Guide for Privacy and Beauty

A hedge does more than mark boundaries—it creates privacy, frames garden spaces, and supports wildlife. Success starts with choosing the right plants: pest-resistant, climate-appropriate, and matched to your desired style (formal vs. informal). Slow-to-moderate growers reduce maintenance. Measure your planting area and calculate spacing based on mature spread.

Best Hedge Plants

Formal hedges suit single-species evergreens like boxwood, arborvitae, or holly. Informal designs shine with mixed flowering shrubs of varying heights. Explore our slideshows for 23 top flowering hedge shrubs and 19 fuss-free deciduous/evergreen options.

Step-by-Step Planting

1. Plot a Line

Stake out straight or curved lines, checking for underground utilities.

2. Space Plants

Position potted shrubs at mature-width spacing; stagger two rows for quicker fill.

3. Mark Holes

Use the pot to mark each hole location.

4. Remove Pots & Plant

Dig holes, remove pots, set plants, check spacing, backfill.

5. Water Well

Form a soil berm around each hole to hold water; water thoroughly and maintain moisture all season.

6. Add Mulch

Spread 2–3 inches of shredded wood mulch, keeping it away from stems.