How to protect your garden

From sowing to harvest, wind can cause a lot of damage in an unprotected garden. The only way of protecting against wind is to put up a garden windbreak, whether that’s a living shelterbelt of wind-resistant shrubs and trees, or an artificial barrier of special windbreak material. This can be along the boundary to protect the whole plot, or in the form of smaller windbreaks within the garden to protect vulnerable areas. But, it is essential that any windbreak is 50% permeable, so that it filters the wind.

If you are planning a new garden, you can strategically use clusters of wind-resistant plants to create sheltered corners and planting pockets within an exposed garden. Container-grown windbreaks are also useful; a few wheeled tubs filled with evergreen shrubs or dwarf bamboo can be used to provide instant shelter part-way down a passageway or alongside an entrance or patio.

Read on for the best plants to create a hedge in your garden.

Shop hedging plants

"You can strategically use clusters of wind-resistant plants to create sheltered corners and planting pockets within an exposed garden"

Plants for low hedges

"Ideal for planting around low-growing features, like a herb garden or border filled with bedding displays"

Larger formal hedges

"Excellent garden dividers that will help create sheltered areas where you can successfully grow more tender plants"

Tools for the job

Inspiration & advice