Planting near laurel hedging

[Gardenhelp21]

Hello,
We are keen to develop a new planting bed next to our fence. Our neighbours have a laurel hedge running for the full length of the other side of the fence (planted 3 years ago, 7 ft high now).

Should we be concerned about the root system affecting planting on our side of the fence? Is it best to leave a bit of a gap before planting anything? Would be need to plant in raised beds?
I know we need to dig down and see what’s going on, but we’re just planning the planting now (mix of evergreen shrubs and flowering plants) so am hoping for some advice.
Thanks.

Yes, if their laurels are close enough to the fence to overhang it they will affect your bed but not too horribly. I always think it’s a good idea not to plant too close to a fence anyway, it allows your plants to develop a nice rounded shape, not be in a rain shadow, and gives you a little bit of access to get behind the bed, but it doesnt need to be obvious (the long borders in most big gardens have an actual path between the hedge and the first plants but you dont see it)

Make your bed nice and wide (looks better) and add some good soil improver and it should be fine without raised beds, which need maintenance and are a pain to mow up to.

Thank you for your quick reply!

That’s really encouraging. The hedge doesn’t overhang the fence as the fence is 6ft tall, but I imagine it might start to as it gets taller and potentially bushes out.

The dog will love a sneaky little pathway around the back of the plants!

Thank you again.