Hedgerow Management
Protecting Boundaries, Supporting BiodiversityNurturing Healthy, Resilient Hedgerows
Hedgerows are more than just field boundaries, they’re living infrastructure, rich in biodiversity and vital to the ecological fabric of rural and estate landscapes. Our hedgerow management and maintenance services ensure that these valuable features remain dense, functional, and ecologically vibrant for decades to come.
Managing Hedgerows for Structure, Wildlife and Heritage
Thoughtfully maintained hedgerows are essential for supporting species diversity, managing land effectively, and preserving countryside character. Whether newly planted or centuries old, hedges require tailored care to ensure longevity and environmental value.
We work with landowners, estate managers, and conservation professionals to deliver strategic hedgerow management that balances practical goals with ecological outcomes. This includes maintaining structure, encouraging wildlife habitats, and enhancing visual and historic features across rural and semi-rural environments.
Each hedge is assessed for age, species mix, and condition. We develop bespoke management plans to encourage dense growth, improve resilience to browsing or weather damage, and maximise seasonal benefits for wildlife. All operations are timed with nature in mind, avoiding nesting seasons and sensitive ecological windows, while meeting the requirements of the Hedgerow Regulations 1997.
Typical Maintenance and Management Activities:
Formative Pruning (Years 1–3): In newly planted hedgerows, formative pruning is carried out in the first few years to encourage low, bushy growth. This usually involves cutting back the leading stems by one-third in winter, avoiding the bird nesting season.
Regular Trimming (Every 2–3 Years): For established hedges, rotational trimming is undertaken every 2–3 years, ideally on a 3-year cycle to allow flowering and fruiting. Cutting should be done in late winter (January–February) to preserve overwintering berries and seedheads for wildlife.
Traditional Management Techniques: Periodic hedgelaying or coppicing may be applied to older hedgerows to rejuvenate growth from the base, close up gaps, and restore structure. These methods are typically used on a 10–20 year cycle depending on species and condition.
Gapping-Up: Replanting of gaps with native species whips (e.g., hawthorn, blackthorn, hazel, dog rose) is done during the dormant season to restore continuity and improve hedgerow function.
Weed and Grass Control: Vegetation management at the base of the hedge using mulching, manual removal, or targeted herbicide supports young plants and reduces competition.
Protection from Livestock or Browsing: Temporary fencing or guards may be used in agricultural or estate settings until the hedge is fully established.
Get in Touch
Please get in touch to arrange a site visit and a member of our team will come out to your site to assess the works that you require.
T: 01420 579071
E: [email protected]
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