As well as having a variety of practical uses, hedges, both formal and informal, can play a significant role in the character and structure of a garden. They can provide shade and shelter, act as a living boundary, and screen the garden from unpleasant sounds or sights.

Acting as Windbreaks

Hedges can also make excellent windbreaks, filtering fast-moving air and minimising the impact caused by turbulence when wind hits a solid object such as a fence or wall. A 1.5 m (5 ft) hedge with 50% porosity will reduce windspeed by 50% at a distance of 7.5 m (24 ft) from the hedge, and by 10% at a distance of 30 m (100 ft). Thus, the shelter provided by hedges is invaluable, especially in gardens where even hardy plants may suffer damage from gales and strong winds.

The porosity of a hedge will vary between times of year and species; for example, a close-clipped evergreen yew hedge (Taxus baccata) is much less porous than a deciduous beech hedge (Fagus sylvatica) during winter.

Adding Texture and Colour

Although a hedge may take several years to establish as a living barrier, they are often preferable to fences as they provide colour, texture and shape. The majority of plants used for hedging are long-lasting, and if maintained properly, will supply an effective and sometimes virtually impenetrable barrier for many years.

Reducing Noise

Hedges can help reduce noise pollution in the garden by screening out unwelcome sounds. One of the most effective noise barriers can be made from a horizontal weave of osier (Salix viminalis), threaded through vertical stakes. The core is then packed with soil to form a wall. The osier eventually roots into the soil and the top and side growth can be pruned back to the woven wall.