Planting new hedges; weed control?

[crashbox]

Got a kilometer of hedge to put in, to subdivide large grass fields and do boundaries.

How do I keep the weeds down?

Should I use mulch, if so, how much will I need?

I've heard of "mulch mats", do they work? Any better ideas?

Thanks all,

CB

 

[ringi]

Sheap wool will work as a mulch, likewise woodchip etc. The hedge will get established better with a mulch and need less remedial work.

 

[Tucker]

I sprayed off the hedge lines last September, planted December, there are a few bits just starting to come back but nothing major. Probably spot spray again in a month or so but really pleased with how the hedge plants have taken (never done it before).

 

[BAF]

Round up? Spray it before you plant them and let it die then give it a top up when/if the weeds start coming back.

 

[Punch]

Spray off before planting. Pile on plenty of woodchip mulch. Seek out a local tree surgeon or gardener with small chipper. It will keep moisture in and keep weeds down.

 

[HarryB97]

I never spray weeds off or mulch under new hedges, just spot spray any brambles. I think the long grass protects the hedge plants as well as providing shade and ground cover. Have very minimal plant losses.

 

[Troward]

Sheap wool will work as a mulch, likewise woodchip etc. The hedge will get established better with a mulch and need less remedial work.

Sheep wool works well, but you need to lay it down very thick. Otherwise you're just giving the grass/weeds underneath a massive boost.