How to install an artificial hedge | Step-by-step guide + video (2026)

Before you read: watch our step-by-step video at the top of this article first. You’ll see a real installation, with all the tips and tricks from our technicians.

What you’ll achieve with an artificial hedge
Materials and tools
Quick height and density selection
Before you start: prep and safety
Step-by-step: how to install an artificial hedge on a fence
Joining rolls and finishing edges
How to cut without fraying
Common mistakes (and how to avoid them)
Maintenance and cleaning
FAQs
Conclusion and resources

1) What you’ll achieve with an artificial hedge

Instant privacy on fences and terraces.
99% privacy coverage with a uniform, natural-looking finish.
Zero maintenance: it doesn’t grow, you don’t water it, you don’t trim it.
Fast installation (about 1 hour for a standard section).
Universal compatibility: metal fences, welded mesh, wooden slats or walls.

2) Materials and tools

Essentials

Roll(s) of artificial hedge (choose height and density for your needs).
A solid base: welded mesh or wooden slats (if your fence doesn’t have a stable structure).
A staple gun (electric or pneumatic) + 8–12 mm staples.
You can also fix it with cable ties or galvanized wire, but on mesh/wood we recommend a staple gun: it’s faster, cleaner and more secure.
Gloves and safety glasses.
Measuring tape, marker/masking tape, pliers/cutters, heavy-duty scissors.

Optional (but very useful)

1,000-staple pack for medium/large projects.
Top finishing batten and U-profiles for gates/edges.
Cable ties (temporary holding while you staple).

3) Quick height and density selection

Height

Match your fence height; if unsure, go slightly higher (e.g., 150 cm fence → 150–180 cm hedge).

Density / Coverage

Neighbors close by or high foot traffic: high density (99% coverage).
Sheltered or purely decorative areas: medium.
If you get frequent wind, prioritize strong fixing (spacing and reinforcement) rather than increasing density.

Not sure? Message us—we’ll help you choose the exact height/density for your case.

4) Before you start: preparation and safety

Work in the shade when opening the roll. The plastic packaging can create a magnifying effect and damage the leaves in direct sun.
Check your fence/mesh/slats are stable and tight. If not, install welded mesh first.
Wear gloves and safety glasses. Keep your workspace clear (no cables/hoses crossing).
Don’t use pliers to “force open” the roll. Find the bent guide wire, straighten it by hand and the roll will release.

5) Step-by-step: how to install an artificial hedge on a fence

1) Identify the two sides

Inner side: goes against the fence.
Outer side: the “nice” side (fuller), facing the visible side.

2) Position the hedge at the top

Place the roll against the fence and unroll about 1 meter.
Make sure the leaves fall downward and the mesh backing stays straight.

3) Fix the top edge

Start at the center to distribute tension.
Pull tight to both sides.
Staple every 15–20 cm along the top edge.

4) Keep unrolling and fixing

Unroll as you go.
Add a middle staple line every 30–40 cm to remove any sagging/waves.
On tall fences or windy areas, add a third bottom line.

Staple angle

Keep about 45° so the staple grabs the backing wire without cutting it.

Tip

If you’re working alone, use 2–3 temporary cable ties to hold the hedge while placing the first staples—then remove them.

6) Joining rolls and finishing edges

Invisible join

Overlap the next roll 5–10 cm.
Align the leaf pattern so the seam doesn’t stand out.
Staple in a zig-zag through both rolls and the base—so it looks like one piece.

Corners and gates

For corners, fold the hedge and reinforce with a vertical staple line.
On gates/doors, finish the edge with a U-profile or a narrow batten.

Top finishing (premium look)

Add a top batten and staple through the hedge into the batten for a perfectly straight top line.

7) How to cut without fraying

Mark the cut line with masking tape or a marker.
Cut following the lengthwise wire using pliers/cutters, slowly and carefully.
Avoid cutting the knots that hold the leaves in place.
Finish with a light “brush” against the grain to even out the edge.

8) Common mistakes (and how to avoid them)

Opening the roll in the sun while wrapped → work in the shade or remove the wrap.
Mixing up sides → the fuller side should face the visible side.
Fixing only the ends → add middle lines (30–40 cm).
Using staples that are too short for hard wood → use 8–12 mm.
Not aligning the pattern when joining rolls → overlap 5–10 cm and staple zig-zag.
Cutting by eye → mark first and follow the wire; don’t cut knots.
Skipping the final brush → brushing against the grain improves uniform coverage.

9) Maintenance and cleaning

Clean with water and mild soap when dusty.
Check top fixing points once a year (especially after strong winds).
Avoid direct heat sources and anything that can snag the leaves.

10) FAQs

Can I install it with cable ties or wire?
Yes. They work, but if you have mesh/wood backing, a staple gun is faster, cleaner (less visible fixing) and more secure.

What spacing should I use between fixings?

Perimeter: 15–20 cm
Inside: 30–40 cm
Roll join: overlap 5–10 cm + zig-zag stapling

How do I avoid “waves”?
Start in the center, tension outwards, and add a middle staple line. Finish by brushing against the grain.

Can it be cut to size?
Yes. Mark and cut along the wire with pliers/cutters. Avoid cutting the knots.

Will it handle sun? Is it outdoor-ready?
Yes. It’s designed for outdoor use and handles sun exposure.
Important: don’t leave the roll wrapped in the sun—the plastic can create a magnifying effect and damage the leaves.

11) Conclusion and resources

Installing an artificial hedge is quick and satisfying: with a solid base, a staple gun and a simple method, you get instant privacy and a uniform finish.

To get it right the first time, follow the video at the top and this guide—and message us if you have any questions (height, density, fixing or finishing).

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How to Install an Artificial Hedge (Ultimate 2025 Guide) — Step-by-Step + Video

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