Hedging Honeysuckle (lonicera nitida)

• Fast-growing evergreen shrub with dense, bushy habit and small, glossy dark green leaves, providing year-round privacy and screening.
• Excellent alternative to box (Buxus) hedging, avoiding issues like box blight and caterpillar; often called "poor man's box" or "poor man's yew".
• Tolerates frequent clipping for formal hedges or topiary; easy to maintain and shape.
• Thrives in sun or shade, most well-drained soils (avoid waterlogged), and hardy across the UK.
• Spring creamy-white flowers and autumn purple-blue berries add interest and attract wildlife.

Planting Guide

• Best time: Autumn (September-October) or early to mid-spring; bare-root plants available November-April, pot-grown year-round.
• Site: Full sun to full shade; sheltered or inland positions preferred (avoid exposed coastal or very windy sites).
• Soil: Moist but well-drained; suits most types except very wet or heavy clay (improve with grit/organic matter if needed).
• Spacing: 30cm apart in a single row for standard hedge; double staggered row for thicker growth (3-5 plants per metre recommended).
• Preparation and planting: Dig in well-rotted organic matter; plant at same depth as in  the nursery; water thoroughly and mulch to surpress weeds and retain moisture.
• Aftercare: Water regularly in first year (especially dry spells) until established; becomes more drought-tolerant later.
• Pruning: Trim 2-3 times per year during growing season (e.g., spring, summer, late autumn) to maintain shape; regular clipping promotes density and prevents bare base.