Question
Dear Gary,

My husband and I just bought a house and all of our grass is completely dead.  As part of a larger landscaping plan I'd like to plant a hedge for privacy in front of our home.  I'm looking for something that could quickly grow to 5-6 feet, flowers and would be drought tolerant.  When I say 'quickly' I have no idea what is realistic.  Is 2 years realistic or would it be more like 6 years?

Thank you for your help!

Jennifer MacLean

Answer
Jennifer,

I am more comfortable suggesting plants to use in the southeast because this is where my experience resides.  But is can provide some guidelines.

Generally a hedge is evergreen and can be drought tolerant, but adding the flowers I believe is the problem.

I suggest that you go to a local garden center or nusery and talk to those folks.  There you will find the local knowledge for the suitable plant material in your area.

Good luck

Gary