How to Grow Podocarpus macrophyllus for a Privacy Hedge

Choose a site in full to partial sun. The soil should be rich, acidic and well draining. Avoid alkaline soils -- those on the higher end of the pH scale -- as Podocarpus macrophyllus may develop yellowing of the leaves, a condition called "chlorosis," when grown in high-alkaline soils.

Plant Podocarpus macrophyllus 2 to 3 feet apart, as measured from the center of one transplant to the center of the next. Dig individual holes slightly larger than the root ball of the transplants. Remove transplants from their nursery pots one at a time as you dig their planting holes. Ensure the plants are transplanted at the same level they were growing in their nursery pots. A slight change of color on the main trunk of the tree indicates the depth at which the plant was previously growing.

Water each transplant individually as you plant it. Pour the water from a 2-gallon watering can on the area immediately around the transplanted Podocarpus macrophyllus. Thereafter, ensure the entire hedge receives at least 1 inch of rainfall or artificial irrigation per week for its first year in your landscape. Consistent moisture will help the hedge get off to a good start and develop a strong root system.

Mulch the ground in the hedge row in a strip approximately 24 to 36 inches wide and centered on the row of plants. This will help keep the ground moist and discourage weeds from growing. Use shredded pine bark, pine needles or wood chips. The pH of these materials is acidic, which will benefit the growth of your Podocarpus macrophyllus hedgerow.

Fertilize your Podocarpus macrophyllus hedge in late fall of the first year you plant it. Pull back the mulch. Apply 12-6-6 granulated fertilizer around the base of each individual plant in the hedgerow at the rate of approximately 1/3 lb. for each foot of height of the hedge. Scratch the fertilizer granules into the soil with a garden rake or claw, but be careful not to damage the roots. Replace the mulch. Fertilize in subsequent years in either early spring or late fall, depending on your preference.

Prune the hedgerow in early spring each year. Remove branches growing outside the general shape of the hedgerow, as well as dead, broken or diseased branches. Shape the hedgerow so the top is narrower than the base, to allow sunlight to reach all the way to the ground. This will ensure that foliage continues to grow and thrive in the lower branches, making a denser, more private hedge. Depending on local growing conditions, prune again in late summer if the hedgerow's growth warrants it.