http://www.amitymama.com/vb/amity-mama-market/343102-mamas-hedges-around-yard-tell-me-like-dislike-growth-rate-etc.html


we are planning on doing a mesh fence and then to grow a hedge along all sides of the back yard.

I am considering Rose of sharons as a plant to grow into a hedge.
I grew up with a HUGE 10 foot Privet hedge (they also grw it along a mesh fence) at my moms house and have considered that too. DH is giving me free range on what to purchase....so I want to really consider it wisely.

Any picks? How long did it take to grow?

TIA

E V I

Pro's of R of S's - they grow very fast and thrive. Cons - LOTS of bugs like them and they may attract bugs into your yard that may then feast on your other garden plants. (Japanese Beetles LOVE them)

Pro's of privet - grows very fast, requires no care (other than round-up - seems to work like fertilizer on my privet), evergreen. Cons - it's an obnoxious weed that is actually illegal to commercially cultivate in some states.

I'd recommend something called Carolina Cherry Laurel - see if it grows in your area (should if the other 2 do!). Also grows fast, requires little care, and is evergreen. 'Bright 'n' Tight' is a good variety.

Also Wax Myrtle, hollies like Burford, Nellie R. Stevens (though they are thorny), Sasanqua Camellias...

I'm also a BIG fan of planting a diverse hedge - one with say 3-5 different plant varieties in it. That way if a pest or fungus moves in and takes out all of a certain type of plant, you'll still have others left.

WOW, thanks for all the info! This is really helpful.