Have healthy hedges with Cobra this autumn

New hedges have the best chances of survival and becoming firmly established if planted in autumn. When it comes to planting a new hedge, like most plants, there are three key areas – soil prep, planting and aftercare.

For hedges it is best to begin the groundwork early to allow the removal of any weeds and for the ground to settle. When planting, rather than digging individual holes it is best to prepare one long trench. Dig a long strip in a single row and mark out the site first, then be sure to add organic matter to help add nutrients to the roots.

Dig the trench to be one spade’s depth and 1m (3ft) wide, then remove all weeds and loosen the soil. When spacing the plants, try not to plant too closely to allow room to spread and develop. Place each plant slightly proud of the soil and fill in around the roots then firm in well.

Then, when it comes to aftercare, during the first year in particular, it is vital to help the plant thrive. Do this by adding mulch to keep the roots moist and the soil temperature regulated. Then water regularly throughout the year.

Evergreen hedges generally grow faster than deciduous so they will need trimming at least once a year – preferably twice. Cobra has a range of electric, petrol and battery hedgetrimmers for when the hedge becomes unruly.

Cobra has two electric models in its range. These are a 55cm blade width and 60cm. For more awkward jobs and trickier hedges there is the LRH40E long reach hedgetrimmer, which has an articulating head and maximum length of 185cm. Alternatively, in the petrol options, there is a 62cm or the long reach model comes with the choice of a Cobra or Kawasaki engine.

The latest additions to the Cobra hedgetrimmers are lithium-ion powered for extra cordless convenience. These have options of a 50cm 24volt model (the H5024V) or a 55cm 40 volt (the H5540VZ). The batteries on these are interchangeable with other Cobra products too.

When dealing with hedges it’s important to remember a few key points:

1. It is illegal to disturb nesting birds so it is best to leave pruning until autumn and check the hedge thoroughly for wildlife before cutting

2. Always remember safety comes first when trimming a hedge – never use hedge trimmers in wet conditions

3. Keep any chords untangled and out the way to avoid tripping

4. For extra protection make sure you wear safety goggles and sturdy gloves.

For more information about Cobra, please visit www.cobragarden.co.uk.