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How can I tell how many shrubs to plant to create a hedge or border?
First, find out from your local nursery how large the plant will grow here. Sometimes plant tags are written for other parts of the country. Plants grown here may not get as large, or they may be much smaller.
Also, ask how quickly it grows. Some shrubs, like Texas mountain laurel, are extremely slow growing. Others, like dwarf yaupon or boxwood, are fairly fast.
It also depends on your soil. Shrubs that can take a variety of conditions are going to grow much faster in deep, rich, compost-improved soil than in shallow soil over a rock bed.
With that, you can determine your spacing. If you want a quicker hedge with a slower variety or in poor soil, you may want to plant a little closer. Be sure to water and fertilize regularly, especially the first few years. Also pay attention to pruning to encourage new growth and a lush form.
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