Plant spacing is determined by the plant species and hedge type. Shrubs in an unsheared, natural hedge should be spaced further apart. To achieve a dense, full hedge, deciduous plants should be pruned back severely at planting time. Cut the plants back to within 6 to 8 inches of the ground when planting both formal and natural hedges. This will induce vigorous growth close to the ground.
Evergreens require little or no pruning at planting.
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