Don't settle for a boring hedge--Try some flowering shrubs

Summersweet flowering shrub — Summersweet (Clethra alnifolia)

Do you want to add privacy to your garden, need some soundproofing from street noise, or just want a colorful separator from the sidewalk, you can't go wrong by working with flowering shrubs as a hedge.

No need to settle for those overused evergreens--cedar, thuja, or privets. You can have fragrant seasonal blooms that attract lots of pollinators. If you choose wisely, you may even have a flowering hedge for the entire summer.

Things to consider when choosing hedge plants

What do you want the hedge to look like?
How much work are you willing to do?
Do you like a showy statement or a classic beauty?
Do you a natural look or something more manicured?
How high should it be?
Do you like the architectural aspect of deciduous or the lush thickness of evergreens?

Be sure to consider the site conditions

Lots of sun or closer to partial shade?
Sand or clay, good drainage or waterlogged?

Next--be realistic about your planting space

Time to measure the length and width of your planting area.
Be sure to carefully consider the recommended planting guide. Now is not the time to be impatient. If you plant to closely together, you will only increase your maintenance requirements as the plants mature.
Be sure to prevent your hedge plants from overhanging the sidewalk, garden paths or similar areas.

There are lots of plants to choose from. This list will get you started. All plants should do well in our area.