Appearance

One of the main factors in deciding between a fence or hedge is appearance. Fences have a harder, less natural look than a hedge. Using shrubs and flowers planted along the fence can soften that and also provide some protection from the wind and sun. One of the most popular privacy fencing ¹ material is treated wood, which can be left in its natural color or stained. Its neutral color tends to blend into the landscape better.

There are many variations in the appearance of a privacy hedge, depending on the plant species used. The classic clipped hedge with straight, boxy sides is usually deciduous, meaning it loses its leaves each fall but still provides some screening through the winter months. A popular evergreen option is cedar, which provides year-round foliage and privacy. On a larger property, you can also opt for an informal mixed hedge with shrubs that will flower at different times throughout the season.

Privacy

A fence will be an excellent and immediate visual screen, creating a private space that passers-by or neighbors cannot see into. On the other hand, while a hedge will eventually create a thick wall of vegetation between your property and others, it will take several years to fill in and reach an adequate height to serve as a privacy screen. Once it has grown to full height, it will be an effective visual barrier.​

Installation

It is best to call in a professional to plant a hedge or install a fence. In both cases, much digging is required, which is best accomplished with professional equipment. However, it is easier to plant a hedge than erect a fence. A landscaper can be especially helpful in deciding which shrubs to plant for a hedge, as they can guide you on growth rates and planting distances for various species. For example, a California privet hedge will grow to 10 feet tall within 3 years, while a cedar hedge takes up to 10 years to reach the same height.

To install a wooden privacy fence ¹, the post holes are dug first, and then cement footings ² are poured to set the posts. Once the concrete sets, fence panels or rails ³ are attached. If rails ³ are used, an extra step of attaching the fence boards or pickets to the rails ³ is required. Finally, post caps ⁴ are placed atop to improve the appearance and prevent water from seeping into the exposed ends.

The first step the landscaper will take when planting a hedge is to dig a trench about 1 foot deep and 2 to 3 feet wide. The next step is to augment the soil with compost ⁵ and fertilizer and place the plants at the appropriate spacing for the species and size. Once the planting is complete, the homeowner needs to water them well and continue to water as they take root and start to grow, especially in dry spells during their first season. Putting down a layer of mulch ⁵ discourages weeds.

Maintenance

A hedge requires more maintenance than a fence because the plants need regular trimming and fertilizing as well as watering when they are first planted and during dry spells. On the other hand, a wooden fence needs to be resealed every few years to extend its life and maintain its appearance.​

Wildlife

Planting a hedge is a great way to encourage and protect wildlife in your neighborhood. A well-maintained hedge will be home to a variety of wild animals, including birds and small mammals looking for protection from both adverse weather and predators. It is even better to plant a mixture of different species in the hedge, including ones that produce berries that animals eat.

A fence, however, forms an impenetrable barrier for small animals that can leave them trapped and without shelter. Unfortunately, fences will not keep out pest animals such as raccoons or skunks.

Building Permits

You may need to obtain a permit for installing a fence or hedge. It varies in each municipality, so do your research and work with your fence installer or landscaper to find out what is required before you begin. In addition, limits are often placed on how tall a fence or hedge can be, especially at the front of your property or on a corner lot where traffic visibility may be impeded.

It is also important to consult with neighbors before installing a fence or hedge, even if your municipality does not require it. Regulations will probably require you to build a fence with the front side facing your neighbor’s yard. As well, it is usually a good idea to plant the hedge or install the fence a foot or more within your property line to avoid potential conflict over its placement. This is an especially good idea if you plant a hedge because over time, the shrubs will grow out into the space on both sides.