Overview
- The first step in creating a successful feijoa hedge is selecting the right variety.
- Dig a hole that is twice as wide and as deep as the root ball of your feijoa plants.
- Place the plant in the hole, ensuring the top of the root ball is level with the ground.
Are you looking for a unique and flavorful addition to your garden that also provides privacy and beauty? Look no further than the feijoa hedge! These evergreen shrubs, known for their delicious fruit and attractive foliage, make an excellent choice for a natural fence. This guide will walk you through the steps of how to grow feijoa hedge, from choosing the right variety to maintaining your flourishing hedge.
Selecting the Right Feijoa Variety
The first step in creating a successful feijoa hedge is selecting the right variety. Some popular choices include:
- ‘Apollo’: This variety is known for its large, flavorful fruits and its upright growth habit, making it ideal for a hedge.
- ‘Coolidge’: This variety produces abundant fruit with a sweet and tangy flavor. Its compact growth habit makes it perfect for smaller spaces.
- ‘Triumph’: This variety is a heavy producer of large, juicy fruits with a sweet and aromatic flavor. It is also known for its disease resistance.
Consider your climate and space constraints when choosing your feijoa variety. Some varieties are more cold-hardy than others, and some have a more spreading growth habit than others.
Planting Your Feijoa Hedge
Once you’ve chosen your feijoa variety, it’s time to plant your hedge. Here’s a step-by-step guide:
1. Prepare the soil: Feijoas prefer well-drained soil with a pH of 5.5 to 6.5. Amend the soil with compost or aged manure to improve drainage and fertility.
2. Dig the planting hole: Dig a hole that is twice as wide and as deep as the root ball of your feijoa plants.
3. Space the plants: Space the plants 1-2 meters apart depending on the variety and desired density of your hedge.
4. Plant the feijoas: Gently remove the feijoa from its container and loosen the roots. Place the plant in the hole, ensuring the top of the root ball is level with the ground. Backfill the hole with soil and water thoroughly.
5. Mulch around the plants: Apply a 2-3 inch layer of organic mulch around the base of the plants to help retain moisture and suppress weeds.
Watering and Fertilizing Your Feijoa Hedge
Feijoas are relatively drought-tolerant once established, but they benefit from regular watering, especially during the hot summer months. Aim to water deeply once a week, allowing the soil to dry out slightly between waterings.
Fertilize your feijoa hedge in early spring with a balanced fertilizer, such as 10-10-10. You can also use a slow-release fertilizer to provide nutrients over a longer period.
Pruning Your Feijoa Hedge
Regular pruning is essential for maintaining the shape and size of your feijoa hedge. The best time to prune is in late winter or early spring before new growth emerges.
1. Shape the hedge: Use hedge shears to trim the sides and top of the hedge to your desired height and width.
2. Remove dead or diseased branches: Prune out any dead, diseased, or crossing branches to maintain the health and vigor of your hedge.
3. Thin out the hedge: If your hedge is becoming too dense, thin out some of the branches to allow for better air circulation and sunlight penetration.
Protecting Your Feijoa Hedge From Pests and Diseases
Feijoas are generally resistant to pests and diseases, but they can be susceptible to certain problems.
- Scale insects: These insects can cause damage to the leaves and fruit. Control them by spraying with insecticidal soap or horticultural oil.
- Leaf spot: This fungal disease can cause brown spots on the leaves. Control it by removing infected leaves and applying a fungicide.
- Fruit fly: These insects can damage the fruit. Control them by using fruit fly traps.
Harvesting and Enjoying Your Feijoa Hedge
Feijoas typically ripen in late autumn or early winter. The fruit will be ready to harvest when it has a deep green color and gives slightly when squeezed.
You can eat feijoas fresh, or use them in jams, jellies, pies, and other recipes. The fruit can also be used to make a delicious and refreshing drink.
The Final Chapter: A Flourishing Feijoa Hedge
A feijoa hedge offers a unique and rewarding experience for any gardener. It provides both privacy and beauty, and the delicious fruit is a bonus. By following these tips, you can create a thriving feijoa hedge that will be a source of enjoyment for years to come.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. How long does it take for a feijoa hedge to grow?
Feijoas grow at a moderate pace, typically reaching a height of 3-4 meters in 5-7 years. However, with proper care and pruning, you can shape your hedge to your desired size and density more quickly.
2. Can I grow a feijoa hedge in a pot?
While feijoas can be grown in pots, they prefer to be planted in the ground. If you are limited by space, choose a dwarf or compact variety and ensure the pot is large enough to accommodate the root system.
3. What is the best way to propagate feijoa plants?
Feijoas can be propagated by seed, cuttings, or layering. However, the most common and successful method is by taking semi-hardwood cuttings in late summer or early autumn.
4. Are feijoas self-pollinating?
Feijoas are self-fertile, meaning they can produce fruit even if they are the only plant in the area. However, cross-pollination can lead to increased fruit production and larger, more flavorful fruits.
5. How do I know if my feijoa hedge is getting enough water?
If the leaves are wilting or drooping, it’s a sign that your feijoa hedge is not getting enough water. Check the soil moisture by inserting your finger a few inches into the soil. If the soil is dry, water deeply until the water drains out of the bottom of the planting hole.
