Hey everyone! I'm fairly new to gardening and I'm considering a different approach to my garden boundary. Rather than replacing the broken wooden fence with another fence, I came across the idea of planting yew hedges. My concern is mainly about upkeep and privacy. The fence between my garden and my neighbor's has been broken since we moved in about two years ago, and while it's technically on her property, she hasn't shown interest in fixing it. This has led to some issues, especially with her large dog, which isn't the friendliest and seems stressed when we're outside. I've heard that yew hedges can last a good 50 years and might offer better durability and privacy compared to a wooden fence. Does anyone know how fast yew grows and whether it's a sustainable choice? Any tips or experiences you could share would be greatly appreciated!
3 Answers
My family has a yew that’s been around for about 200 years! It’s an awesome habitat for birds and insects. Yew is definitely slower in growth, about 20-40cm per year, but once it’s thickened up, you’ll never look back. Do consider the berries—they’re toxic, so that's something to think about with pets and neighbors' animals.
Yew hedges are a great choice! They can last way over 50 years if taken care of and make for a thick evergreen screen. Just keep in mind that to make it dog-proof, you might need to install some post and wire netting to protect the young plants while they grow. One thing to note is that yew can take a while to establish, but once it does, you’ll have a lovely, private space. Just be careful—yew is toxic, so if your neighbor's dog has access, that could be a serious risk!
If you want a quick solution, look for ‘Instant Hedges’. They’re larger sections that you can plant right away for immediate coverage. Yews are stunning but remember they can grow tall (20m or more), so proper maintenance is key! Other options like cherry laurel or privet might give you that instant privacy while being non-toxic options, and they’re usually easier to manage. Consider what will fit your garden best!