Kei Apple:
Kei apple, also known as Dovyalis kaffra, is a small, evergreen tree that is native to South Africa.
It is known for its attractive, glossy green leaves and delicious, orange-yellow fruit.
Kei apple is a popular choice for use as a hedge plant in gardens and landscapes due to its fast growth rate, dense foliage, and ability to tolerate a wide range of growing conditions.
In this blog post, we will explore the many benefits of using Dovyalis Kaffra as a hedge plant, as well as how to care for and maintain a Kei apple hedge.
Benefits of Using Kei Apple for Fencing
One of the primary benefits of using Kei apple as a hedge plant is its fast growth rate.
Kei apple can grow up to 3-5 feet per year, making it a quick and effective way to create a privacy hedge or screen.
Its dense foliage provides a solid visual barrier and can effectively block out noise and wind.
Kei apple is also a drought-tolerant plant, making it a great choice for areas with low or inconsistent water supply.
It is also resistant to most pests and diseases, making it a low-maintenance plant that is easy to care for.
When planting Kei apple as a hedge, it is important to space the plants about 5 cm apart, and grow 2-3 rows spaced at 10 cm.
Doing this will make the fence grow dense, thus increase its ability to keep out intruders.
Planting and Management of Kei Apple
Planting in well-draining soil is also essential, as Dovyalis Kaffra is prone to root rot if the soil is constantly wet.
Regular watering is important during the first few years of growth to help the plants establish a strong root system.
Dovyalis Kaffra can be grown in full sun or partial shade, although it may produce more fruit when grown in full sun.
It is also important to provide adequate airflow to the plants to prevent the build-up of fungal diseases.
To maintain a healthy hedge, it is important to prune the plants regularly.
This can be done by removing any damaged or diseased branches, as well as thinning out the interior of the hedge to promote airflow and allow more sunlight to reach the lower branches.
Pruning should be done during the dormant season, which is typically from late fall to early spring.
In addition to regular pruning, the plant hedges will benefit from fertilization.
Use a balanced fertilizer, such as a 10-10-10 formula, in the early spring and again in the summer.
Avoid over-fertilizing, as this can lead to excessive growth and reduced fruit production.
In Conclusion:
This hedge plant is well-suited to a wide range of growing conditions.
Its fast growth rate, drought tolerance, and resistance to pests and diseases make it an excellent choice for use as a hedge plant.
With proper care and maintenance, the plant can provide a beautiful and functional addition to any garden or landscape.
