What to Plant in April: A No-Nonsense Guide
Share This Article: April is go time. If you’re thinking about planting hedging, trees, or topiary — don’t wait. The soil’s warming up. The roots
Our hedging plants range from 15cm to 600cm, offering flexibility for every need. Here’s what to consider:
Smaller Sizes (15–150cm): Budget-friendly but require denser planting for a full hedge. Ideal for long-term projects or those who enjoy nurturing their garden.
Larger Sizes (150cm+): More expensive but need fewer plants per meter. Perfect for instant privacy or immediate visual impact.
Balance your budget and timeline to choose between gradual growth satisfaction or an instant, established hedge.
The ideal starting size is typically 110–130 cm, balancing cost and quick establishment.
If you’re still not sure where to start, please contact us and we will be happy to help!
Bare Root
Cost-effective | Quick to plant | Low delivery cost
Bare root plants are sold without soil, lifted from fields during dormancy (October to April).
Root Ball
Mature | Affordable | High survival
Field-grown with soil intact, wrapped in burlap and in some occasions metal wire, and typically available from October to April.
Pot Grown
Year-round | Flexible planting | Highest survival
Pot-grown plants are grown in containers, available year-round, and can be planted anytime unless the ground is frozen.
When planting hedging plants, choosing the right density is essential for achieving a beautiful, lush hedge. Here’s a helpful guide tailored to the size and root type of your plants:
Bare root plants are cost-effective and great for dense coverage:
15–150 cm Plants: Space 4–6 plants per meter for even, uniform growth.
150 cm+ Plants: Space 3–5 plants per meter to create a fuller hedge.
You can plant in a single row for a traditional look or use a zig-zag formation for quicker and denser results.
Root ball and pot-grown plants have more developed roots and bushier growth, requiring fewer plants per meter:
15–90 cm Plants: Space 3–6 plants per meter.
90–150 cm Plants: Space 2–4 plants per meter.
150–250 cm Plants: Space 1–3 plants per meter.
250 cm+ Plants: Space 1–2 plants per meter.
Free specialist delivery on qualifying orders: At Harrod Outdoors, we take pride in delivering top-quality plants directly to your doorstep. Our delivery options are tailored to the size and type of plants you order, ensuring they arrive in excellent condition and ready to transform your outdoor space. We offer free specialist delivery on qualifying orders across most of the UK.
Typical lead time – around 3–4 weeks: Most orders take approximately 3–4 weeks to prepare and deliver. This time allows us to carefully source from our extensive range, prepare your plants to our high standards, and ensure everything arrives in peak condition.
Kerbside delivery only: All deliveries are kerbside, meaning your plants will be unloaded at the front of your property (driveway or kerbside) and will not be carried beyond this point. It is your responsibility to move the plants to their final location once delivered.
Safe place required: Please specify a safe place for box, pallet or van deliveries in your order notes. If none is provided, drivers will leave your order where they deem reasonable. Pallet and large tree deliveries require flat, solid access such as tarmac, concrete or brickweave – we cannot deliver onto gravel, shingle, grass or public roads or pathways.
Be available on the day of delivery: It is essential that you are contactable on your provided phone number in case the driver needs to reach you. If access is restricted, no safe place is available, or the driver is instructed not to leave the order, delivery will fail and additional delivery charges will apply or you may need to collect from the local depot.
Plan ahead: We recommend not booking landscapers or gardeners solely based on estimated delivery dates, as occasional delays can occur due to factors beyond our control. For full details, view our Delivery Policy or contact us for advice before ordering.
If you need help selecting the right plants or have specific delivery requirements, our friendly team is here to assist. You can trust us to handle your order with expertise every step of the way. View our Delivery Policy or Contact Us for more information.
Phyllostachys Nigra is an excellent choice for hedging due to its dense, upright growth and vibrant black canes. This bamboo grows quickly, reaching 3 to 5 meters, making it perfect for privacy screens and boundaries. Its clumping growth habit ensures it won’t spread uncontrollably, making it easier to maintain and ideal for creating structured hedges in both small and large spaces.
Phyllostachys Nigra is a fast-growing bamboo, typically growing 30 to 60 cm per year. This rapid growth makes it a great option for those who need quick results for privacy or screening. Once established, it quickly forms a dense barrier, perfect for blocking unwanted views or noise.
Phyllostachys Nigra prefers full sun for optimal growth but can tolerate partial shade. While it will grow slower and may not reach its full colour potential in shadier areas, it can still thrive in these conditions. For the best results, plant it in a sunny spot where it can reach its full height and maintain vibrant green and black canes.
Phyllostachys Nigra typically grows to a height of 3 to 5 meters. However, its size can be controlled with regular pruning to maintain a desired height and shape, making it a great choice for formal or informal hedging. Regular trimming also helps ensure it doesn’t overtake other plants in the garden.
Yes, Phyllostachys Nigra is relatively low-maintenance once established. It requires minimal care, needing only occasional pruning to maintain shape and size. Its clumping growth habit makes it easier to manage compared to running bamboo species, reducing the risk of it spreading uncontrollably. Additionally, it is drought-tolerant once established, requiring only regular watering during dry spells.
Yes, Phyllostachys Nigra is ideal for privacy screening due to its dense, upright growth and quick maturation. It creates a solid barrier against wind, noise, and unwanted views, making it a popular choice for urban gardens, patios, and boundaries. The plant’s evergreen nature ensures year-round coverage, maintaining privacy throughout the seasons.
Phyllostachys Nigra thrives in well-drained soils and prefers full sun, although it can tolerate partial shade. It grows best in moderately fertile soil, with a slightly acidic to neutral pH. This bamboo is hardy in temperatures down to -15°C, making it suitable for most of the UK. Once established, it is fairly drought-tolerant but benefits from regular watering during prolonged dry periods.
Free Nationwide Delivery
Enjoy free delivery on qualifying orders, making your purchase convenient and affordable.
Expert Advice at Your Fingertips
Benefit from personalized consultations with our horticultural specialists to find the perfect plants for your garden.
High-Quality Plants from Leading Growers
Our plants are sourced from Europe’s top growers, ensuring they are healthy, vibrant, and ready to thrive.
Extensive Variety to Suit Every Garden
Explore a wide selection of plants, trees, hedging, and topiary. Can’t find what you need? We’ll help source it for you.
Competitive Prices with No Compromise on Quality
Enjoy premium-quality plants and services at prices that fit your budget.
5-Star Aftercare Support
From detailed care and watering guides to expert advice just a call away, we’re here to assist you every step of the way—before, during, and after your purchase.
| Product Type | Size | Minimum Order Quantity | Order Increment |
|---|---|---|---|
| Bare Root Plants | 15-30cm | 100 plants | Step up by 5 |
| 30-50cm | 50 plants | Step up by 5 | |
| 50-70cm | 25 plants | Step up by 5 | |
| 71cm+ | 10 plants | Step up by 1 | |
| Pot Grown Plants | 15-30cm | 50 plants | Step up by 5 |
Share This Article: April is go time. If you’re thinking about planting hedging, trees, or topiary — don’t wait. The soil’s warming up. The roots
A coastal garden combines hardy plants, natural textures, and a relaxed feel to create a low-maintenance outdoor space inspired by the seaside. Find out how to bring it to life in your own outdoor space in this Coastal Garden Style Guide.
A detailed, step-by-step guide on how your plants are carefully dispatched from our nursery and delivered to your doorstep. Learn what to expect upon arrival, how to handle your plants after delivery, and the most responsible ways to dispose of packaging for a more sustainable gardening experience.
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