Hedge Laying and Hedgerow Management
Hedges have been part of the British landscape for hundreds of years. Originally laid hedges were used to keep livestock in fields but have also become an important haven for wildlife. Hedgerow management including hedge laying helps to maintain and preserve this part of the countryside for future generations.
Hedge Laying is a traditional way of stock proofing your land to ensure any livestock are securely fenced.
In recent years barbed wire has been used as a cheaper alternative. This has led to the neglect of hedgerows and in turn the reduction of wildlife species living in them.
Once you have laid a hedge it lets in light and encourages new growth from the bottom of the hedge and also shoots from the top, this in turn attracts beetles, bugs, shrews, voles and birds back to an ecosystem.
Hedge laying encourages the regeneration of mature hedges producing new growth whilst establishing a more dense and secure boundary to a field or garden. Well laid hedges can last between 10 and 20 years providing a healthy hedge, prolonging the usefulness of the plants and creating a more effective boundary and wildlife haven.
Hedge laying is a task done in the winter months when the plants are dormant, and is carried out by cutting plants at the base of the main stem creating 'pleachers' and then bending these pleachers over and weaving them in with the others in the row. Hazel stakes are often used to hold the laid hedge in place. When the spring comes new growth will spring up vertically, filling all the gaps in the hedge and creating an unescapable barrier.
Wattle hurdles are sometimes used in hedge laying and can be used to start a new hedge while the plants are still young and need protection. These hurdles will rot down by the time the hedge is mature enough to be laid.
Parsons and Sons are experienced in hedge laying and hedge conservation and will be able to advise you on all aspects of hedgerow management. A good laid hedge will give many years service as a solid barrier to fields, as well as providing a beneficial haven for wildlife.
We rejuvenate neglected hedgerows in gardens, farms, roadsides and parks. Please contact us for a free no obligation quote
