The Glossy Buckthorn (also known as Alder Buckthorn) is a fantastic choice if you’re looking for lush foliage and a bloom time that just won’t quit. These qualities make it a standout candidate for a garden hedge. Here’s the lowdown on how to get your buckthorn hedge started and what you need to keep in mind.
Why Choose Glossy Buckthorn for Your Hedge?
Like any plant, the Glossy Buckthorn has its pros and cons when it comes to hedging. First things first: it’s not an evergreen. It will drop its leaves as fall turns into winter. However, if you really only need that privacy screen during the summer months, this plant has a lot to offer.
Beyond its beautiful green leaves, it features lovely flowers that develop from the buckthorn buds and stick around from May all the way through August. You won’t find many plants with such a long blooming season! Plus, it’s a pretty low-maintenance addition to your yard.
It also handles pruning like a champ. As long as it’s planted in the right spot, it will bounce back with vigorous new growth after a trim. Another huge plus? The flowers are a nectar goldmine for bees. Planting a buckthorn hedge is a great way to do your part for the local environment and keep your neighborhood pollinators happy.
Planting and Caring for Your Hedge
Success starts with picking the perfect spot. Keep in mind that Glossy Buckthorn loves moist soil and plenty of sunlight. Ideally, you’ll want to provide it with soil that has an acidic pH. When you’re ready to plant, I recommend mixing some compost into the soil to give your new hedge a healthy nutrient boost right out of the gate.
Here’s the “cheat sheet” for a happy buckthorn hedge:
- Moist soil
- Acidic soil pH
- Full sun to partial shade
When planting, space your individual shrubs about 3 to 4 feet apart. If you hit a dry spell, make sure to give the hedge plenty of water. A little fertilizer now and then doesn’t hurt, either! Finally, be sure to prune regularly to maintain the shape and clear out any dead or dried-out branches.