It is hard to underestimate the importance of hedgerows as part of the British countryside, and not only as a natural method for boundary distinctions. From a farming perspective, there are a number of benefits that come with hedgerow planting.As our climate continues to change, hedgerows play an important role as a means to help reduce flooding. This help to increase the resilience of farms to extreme weather, which is becoming more normal.Hedgerows offer a natural barrier to flood water and increase the absorption of water into the ground. As well as this, they act as windbreaks, protecting vulnerable crops whilst offering shade and shelter for animals. Hedgerows can also reduce the amount of fertiliser, pesticide and eroded topsoil from reaching watercourses.
Of course, hedgerows create a stock proof barrier, but they also provide wildlife corridors and help to increase biodiversity, supporting insects and birds. They can boost crop production by sustaining key pollinators and natural predators of crop pests.AF supplier, British Hardwood Tree Nursery, recommends a mix of 70% Hawthorn, 10% Blackthorn, with the remaining 20% made up of a combination of species that can include Hazel, Common Dogwood, Dog Rose & Crab Apple. This provides a tough mix of native species that will grow almost anywhere.
With the bare root season now in full swing, now is the perfect time to plant your hedgerow to reap these benefits.
28th November - 6th December 2020 marks National Tree Week. The annual initiative, hosted by the Tree Council, encourages you to take part in planting trees as we move into the winter planting season. Each year, over 250,000 people get involved - so why not join them?
For all your hedgerow and planting supplies, get in touch with AF's General Supplies team today by emailing generalsupplies@theafgroup.co.uk or call the office on 01603 881 881.With thanks to British Hardwood Tree Nursery for the content of this blog.
