Planting and Caring for a Thriving Hicks Yew Privacy Hedge

The Hicks Yew (Taxus x media 'Hicksii') is a popular choice for privacy hedges due to its dense foliage, fast growth rate, and relatively low maintenance requirements. This comprehensive guide will equip you with the knowledge to plant and care for a thriving Hicks Yew hedge, transforming your garden into a private haven.

Choosing the Right Location

Before planting, it's crucial to select the ideal location for your Hicks Yew hedge. Here are some key factors to consider:

Factor	Description
Sunlight	Hicks Yew thrives in full sun to partial shade. Aim for at least 6 hours of direct sunlight daily for optimal growth.
Soil	Well-drained, slightly acidic soil (pH between 6.0 and 7.0) is ideal. If your soil is heavy clay or very alkaline, consider amending it with organic matter or peat moss.
Space	Mature Hicks Yew can reach 8-12 feet tall and 4-6 feet wide. Plan your hedge placement accordingly, leaving enough space for it to mature without crowding other plants or structures.
Utilities	Avoid planting near underground utilities by contacting your local utility locating service before digging.

Planting Your Hicks Yew Hedge

Once you've chosen the perfect spot, follow these steps for successful planting:

1. Timing: The best time to plant Hicks Yew is in early spring or fall when the soil is cool and moist.
2. Digging the trench: Dig a trench that is twice the width of the root ball of your Hicks Yew plants and slightly deeper than the root ball itself. Aim for straight sides for a clean look.
3. Spacing your plants: Space your Hicks Yew plants 2-3 feet apart for a dense hedge. For a looser hedge, space them 3-4 feet apart.
4. Planting: Carefully remove the Hicks Yew from its container and loosen any root-bound roots. Place the plant in the trench, ensuring the root ball sits level with the surrounding soil. Backfill the trench with the excavated soil, tamping it down gently to remove air pockets.
5. Watering: Water your newly planted hedge thoroughly, soaking the soil to a depth of several inches.

Hedge Care and Maintenance

With proper care, your Taxus Hicksii hedge will thrive for years to come. Here's how to maintain its health and appearance:

• Watering: Water your hedge regularly, especially during the first year after planting and during hot, dry periods. Aim to provide deep watering once or twice a week, allowing the soil to dry slightly between waterings.
• Fertilizing: Fertilize your Hicks Yew hedge in early spring with a balanced fertilizer formulated for evergreens. Follow the application instructions on the fertilizer package.
• Pruning: Regular pruning is essential to maintain the desired shape and density of your hedge. Prune your Hicks Yew hedge in late spring or early summer after the new growth has matured. Use sharp pruning shears to remove any dead, diseased, or overgrown branches. You can also shape the top and sides of the hedge to create a formal or informal look.

Common Pests and Diseases

Hicks Yew is generally resistant to pests and diseases. However, keep an eye out for:

• Yew scale: These small, sap-sucking insects can cause yellowing needles and stunted growth. Insecticidal soap or horticultural oil can be used for control.
• Fungal diseases: Fungal diseases like needle blight can cause browning and dropping of needles. Proper watering practices and avoiding overhead watering can help prevent these issues.

Conclusion

By following these guidelines, you can establish and maintain a beautiful and thriving Hicks Yew privacy hedge. With its fast growth rate and low maintenance needs, Hicks Yew is an excellent choice for gardeners seeking privacy and a touch of elegance in their outdoor space.