Using Live Hedging to Bring Film and TV Sets to Life
Bringing Film Sets to Life with Live Laurel, Portuguese Laurel and Box Hedging
Introduction
In film and television, every detail counts. The right background can transform a scene from ordinary to unforgettable. Live greenery—such as laurel, Portuguese laurel, box hedging and semi-mature trees—offers texture, realism and flexibility that artificial plants simply can’t match. At Hedgeforce, we supply fully grown, set-ready hedges and trees for productions across the UK, helping art departments create authentic outdoor spaces in record time.
1. Instant, Realistic Backdrops
Live laurel and box hedging provide dense evergreen foliage that reads beautifully on camera. Unlike artificial props, natural plants move subtly with the wind and reflect light in a way that gives directors and cinematographers depth and realism—whether the shoot is a quick commercial or a long-running TV drama.
2. Species with Screen Appeal
- Laurel Hedge (Prunus laurocerasus): Known for its glossy, deep-green leaves, laurel delivers instant privacy and a lush, timeless look.
- Portuguese Laurel (Prunus lusitanica): Offers a slightly darker leaf and red stems—ideal for period dramas or moody night shoots.
- Box Hedging (Buxus sempervirens): Perfect for formal gardens, courtyards, and heritage sets. Box creates crisp lines and elegant shapes for tight framing.
- Mature Trees: From characterful multi-stems to tall screening trees, semi-mature specimens add scale and authenticity to any location.
3. Fast Installation, Flexible Layouts
Time is money on set. Our modular planter system allows us to deliver and install hedging or trees within hours—even in challenging locations such as rooftops, courtyards, or studio sound stages. Units can be repositioned for multiple scenes or re-shot angles without disturbing the set.
4. Perfect for Indoor or Outdoor Shoots
Whether dressing an indoor studio or a remote country estate, living hedges can be used inside or outside. We provide floor protection, watering schedules, and ballast options to keep plants healthy and sets safe throughout filming.
5. Continuity and Aftercare
Our production service includes continuity checks, ensuring plants maintain the same look for every take. If a shoot spans several weeks, we provide watering plans or on-site maintenance to keep greenery fresh and camera-ready.
6. Sustainable and Reusable
After filming, our live hedges and trees return to our nursery for ongoing care or are sold as ex-rental stock, giving them a permanent home in private gardens and reducing waste—a key consideration for environmentally conscious productions.
Popular Uses on Set
- Creating instant garden boundaries or courtyard walls
- Screening modern elements in period dramas
- Forming green rooms or backstage areas for talent and crew
- Providing depth and texture for wide establishing shots
Why Productions Choose Hedgeforce
- Rapid turnaround and nationwide delivery
- Fully grown, high-quality plants with strong visual impact
- RAMS and biosecurity documentation for every job
- Experienced crew for safe, discreet installation and removal
Call to Action
Need live laurel, Portuguese laurel, box hedging or mature trees for your next film or TV project?
Contact Hedgeforce today for a tailored quote and discover how we can help bring your set to life.
