Can a decent 7' hedge be grown in a series of clay pots?
Question:I live in the desert and need a 70' hedge.
I'm trying to achieve a bit of privacy around a swimming pool.
I'm thinking about cypress but was wondering if there might be something better.
The reason for pots is I don't want to breakup any existing cement.
Answers:
I seriously doubt you could get 7' plants in clay pots without a substantial amount of trouble. There may be other options, but clay will crack and doesn't last very long and it sounds like you are looking for a long term option. You may get better results from making a long planterbox out of wood or brick, that runs the length of the area you are wanting to make private, then adding trellises throughout or a latticework, and planting some vining plants that will fill it in. That way you would have much more soil to work with than individual pots and the plants would have a better chance. I would imagine that you could plant bougainvillea, Macfadyena unguis-cati, also known as cat's claw vine, was listed as one of the best for deserts, also creeping fig, wisteria, grape, coral vine, jasmine, honeysuckle. Good luck!
Brenda's idea is what I was thinking. Then along the bottom of the planter you can plant shorter flowers to add to the beauty.
It will break up pots too, plus they would need a huge amount of water. Build a privacy fence.
I agree with Brenda, it would not work very well. Besides cracking clay pots tend to dry out quickly. What about a wooden or vinyl fence that you could trellis things on. The posts could have cement bottoms to solidify it. Good luck.
I would make a long planter out of cedar --- it has to be big to allow sufficient root growth and also, if you live in a colder region, big enough to avoid freezing out the roots.
it could be made out of 2x12 lumber two high (24 inches), or four 2x6s might be cheaper. put some some 2x4s upright inside under the dirt line to keep them hidden but add extra strength. 70' will not be cheap no matter what you use, but still cheaper than pulling up the concrete. it probably should be approx. 3 feet wide to give sufficient room for growth.
---hope this makes sense and good luck!
Bill,
Seven foot tall equals the same in depth and width for root growth. 70' is the same!
In our state (Pa) you are required to fence in the pool if it is above 2' in depth. A check with your Homeowner Insurance policy writer will find that you can reduce your cost and liability with a solid and perm. barrier. With a basic barrier you plant.
Thru the concrete is no problem with the new bore machines. A fence should give you a discount, peace of mind, and privacy. After that, get the planters and spend the savings on large and grand plants. Good Luck.
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