If you are looking at an exposed site that is open to strong winds, all is not lost. There are quite a few plant choices to use for hedging in exposed areas that can create the perfect climate for planting other plants behind.
Wind can remove water from a plant very quickly causing issues with plant establishment so planting a hedging tolerant of exposed sites is a must in order to plant behind in the more protected zone.
Plants tolerant of exposure are invaluable in creating windbreaks. They will still require plenty of water, mulching, staking and support and planting with Mycorrhizal fungi in order to survive and thrive.
Our top choices for hedging plants for exposed sites are:
Crataegus. Native Hawthorn. The dense network of branches provides cover all year round.
Elaeagnus. Tough leathery attractive leaves with attractive silver undersides to the leaves
Fagus. Native Beech. Dense foliage cover and spectacular autumn colour
Ligustrum ovalifolium. Privet. Easy to clip and control the shape or height. Very neat hedge
Prunus lusitanica Myrtifolia. Dense foliage cover from the plant that literally does everything
Viburnum tinus. Evergreen foliage, winter interest with pink buds opening to white flowers in spring
