Hedgerow Restoration
Hedgerows are one of the premier habitats in the United Kingdom, increasing biodiversity and providing a refuge for nesting birds, mammals and invertebrates. A huge asset to our countryside, it is by managing and restoring hedgerows correctly that these boundaries are most beneficial to the wildlife that rely on them.
LAYING
Laying a hedge is the traditional method for keeping hedgerows dense and healthy. The technique encourages regeneration within the base of the hedge, ensuring a stock proof structure. This in turn creates a refuge for wildlife and increases biodiversity. A hedge should be laid every 15-20 years to see it maintained in a prime condition. In between the laying process a hedge should be trimmed to encourage horizontal growth and increase density still further.
TRIMMING
In between laying a hedge needs to be trimmed to retain its firm and structure. If left, a hedge will attempt to revert to a line of trees which will reduce the rows habitat value. A hedge should ideally be trimmed late in the winter, ensuring that wildlife are able to exploit the autumn fruits, an annual bounty they rely on for winter survival.
COPPICING
A hedge that has been left to become derelict can be reinvigorated by coppicing. This form of management is perhaps the oldest form of hedgerow management and sees the stems cut back to ground level. Gaps can be replanted and grow alongside the regenerating coppice stumps. Once the hedge has recovered it should be laid to increase density and extend longevity.
PLANTING
New plants can be used to fill gaps in all hedgerow management techniques. They can also be used of course to create new hedge boundaries. Planting should be considered alongside new fencing projects where it can eventually replace fence lines at the end of their lifespan. They can be planted to mark all boundaries whether in town or countryside and should ideally be laid once established.
Contact
Whether you’re looking to restore a hedge, learn the craft, or take part in a workshop surrounded by nature, Paul would love to hear from you.
For all enquiries, bookings, or course information, please use the contact form.