The
strong-growing pines and Norway spruce are better adapted to large
estates than to the area of an acre. Therefore we would advise the
employment of the American arbor vitae and of hemlock. The hedge
of the latter evergreen on Mr. Fuller's place formed one of the
most beautiful and symmetrical walls I have ever seen. It was so
smooth, even, and impervious that in the distance it appeared like
solid emerald.
The ground should be thoroughly prepared for a hedge by deep
plowing or by digging; the trees should be small, young, of even
height and size, and they should be planted carefully in line,
according to the directions already given for a single specimen;
the ground on each side mulched and kept moist during the first
summer. In the autumn, rake the mulch away and top-dress the soil
on both sides for the space of two or three feet outward from the
stems with well-decayed manure. This protects the roots and
ensures a vigorous growth the coming season. Allow no weeds or
even grass to encroach on the young hedge until it is strong and
established. For the first year no trimming will be necessary
beyond cutting back an occasional branch or top that is growing
stronger than the others; and this should be done in early
October. During the second season the plants should grow much more
strongly; and now the shears are needed in summer.
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