Discover the fast-growing Douglas fir for a unique, green hedge

Arborvitae is a popular plant that adorns parks, gardens, and urban areas. It is straightforward to grow and, when properly cared for, protects against neighbours' curious eyes.

For this reason, many people decide to plant it in their garden. Are you looking for an alternative to arborvitae? Choose the Douglas fir. This unique plant can grow up to 80 centimetres in a year.

Douglas fir, also known as Pseudotsuga menziesii, is a species of pine tree. It originates from South America but can quickly be grown in our climate. It looks somewhat like a spruce, but unlike spruce, it grows astonishingly fast. In a year, it grows about 80 centimetres.

How to care for the tree is straightforward. The plant has shallow soil and environmental requirements. It can be planted anywhere in the garden. It thrives best in fertile, humus-rich soil with a slightly acidic reaction.

How often to water Douglas fir? Young trees should be watered at least once a week, especially during dry periods. Do this early or late in the evening to minimize the risk of water evaporation.

Older specimens are not as sensitive to drying out, so they do not require watering. Rain is enough for them. Unfortunately, the plant does not tolerate overwatering well, so ensure it has well-draining soil before planting.

In the first years after planting, Douglas fir should be pruned to give the crown the desired shape. Young trees are pruned once a year, early or late in the summer, by 1/3 of the shoot length.

What about fertilizers? You can use ready-made conifer fertilizers or water it with a homemade nutrient solution based on coffee grounds, which slightly acidify the soil. Follow these guidelines, and you will enjoy a beautiful, tall, and dense hedge for years.