Before planting a wildlife hedge, consider its purpose. If the hedge is intended to be stock-proof, it needs to comprise at least 75% thorny plants. Hawthorn, with the addition of blackthorn or holly, often provides the mainstay of stock-proof hedges. Plants which provide berries or seeds for ...
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Hedging
Hedgerow cutting
A recent report by ecologists from the Centre for Ecology and Hydrology at Monk’s Wood in Cambridgeshire has suggested that by cutting hedgerows less frequently, farmers can save money and protect our wildlife. During the autumn each year, thousands of kilometres of hedgerow is cut using ...
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Laying hedges – the whys and wherefores of this ancient craft
In the post-1945 period of agricultural expansion, many thousands of miles of hedgerow were destroyed to enlarge fields, and for building development. The rate of destruction has now slowed, and between 1990 and 1993 the length of new hedges being planted outstripped that being removed. The ...
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How to lay a hedge
The many miles of recently planted, established, or derelict hedgerows need managing. It is important to check the regional style to be adopted. The techniques on this page follow those appropriate to the Midland Bullock hedge. Repairing a neglected hedge involves clearing out dead wood, ...
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