This British native plant is one of the most desirable of evergreens, prized for its excellence as a long-lived hedge. Careful selection and planting will ensure good establishment of plants.
Making a choice
Taxus baccata (yew) is one of the finest evergreen hedge plants. Although it has a reputation for slow growth, yew can achieve 30cm (1ft) a year once established. However, good establishment is vital to ensure success.
Buy plants that are 45-60cm (18-24in) high, as these tend to establish more successfully and grow away better than larger plants. Bare-rooted or root-balled yews are preferable as they are usually cheaper than container-grown stock and seem to establish more readily.
Planting technique
Like most evergreens, yew is ideally planted in autumn (September/October) or spring (March/April). Fork over the soil and incorporate a little organic matter in to the top layer. Then dig a hole and position the plant. Make sure the uppermost roots on the plant are just below soil level. This is particularly important, as burying the bottom of the stem can cause it to rot. Water in the plants, and remember to keep moist especially in dry spells. Apply general-purpose fertiliser in spring.
If foliage turns a bronze colour, this usually indicates environmental stress. This may be a failure to establish, drought or waterlogging. Yew will not tolerate waterlogging and, in such conditions, can be susceptible to Phytophthora root rot. For hedges on heavier soils, build the soil into a ridge at least 15cm (6in) higher and about 1m (3ft) wide and allow it to settle before planting along its middle.
Leigh Hunt