What Type of Site and Soil is Suitable for Leylandii Hedges?
Leylandii conifers are one of the most versatile hedging species, they will grow successfully in all soil types including Clay and Chalk soils. On lighter sandy or chalky soils it is advisable to add some organic matter to the soil to help reduce the drying effects of the summer months. When planting as also advise using a little bonemeal and rootgrow to get the new hedge established quickly. For a full set of planting instructions please take a look at our ‘How to plant a hedge’ page.
Leylandii hedges are suitable for conditions from sheltered to exposed, they are a good choice for coastal gardens too although the tips can get scorched occasionally by the salty spray– but this is only cosmetic, soon covered by the new growth when it comes.
If you are planting a new Leylandii hedge or screen on an exposed site, be sure that the plants are firm after planting and keep an eye on them for the first year or two. Wind rocked plants can fail – if they flap around in the wind a hole will form in the soil at the base of the stem, as with any new hedge this can be fatal if it fills with water.
Because Leylandii are very fast growing, crooked plants that have been blown around can be VERY heavy and hard to get straight again when they have grown! A little time spent monitoring/straightening the new hedge when it is young will go a very long way. It is much easier to stake and secure a small plant.