The key to successful Native Farm Hedging lies in the mix of plant varieties used – one dominant species supported by a careful mixture of others…
Native Farm Hedging Varieties: Hawthorn (Crataegus monogyna)
The Hawthorn has been the backbone of English Hedges and Hedgerows for centuries – actually millennia – and that’s why, of all Native Farm Hedging Varieties, Hawthorn is at the heart of our selection. Its combination of spines and close-growing branches make it all but impenetrable. And it’s eminently practical: reliable, easy-to- maintain and relatively quick growing.
Hazel (Corylus avallana, pictured above)
After Hawthorn, Hazel is the second most common Farm Hedging plant found in England and has long been a vital element of English lowland field boundaries. In the southwest it is the dominant species. And, of course, if allowed to, it will bear nuts – as popular with humans as they are appreciated by an assortment of wildlife.
Blackthorn (Prunus spinosa)
Blackthorn, as its name suggests, offers an excellent line of defence to keep animals in and interlopers (on two or four legs) out. It is, after all, known as the ‘cattle-proof’ Farm Hedge.
And it comes with a bonus – its sloes are used to make that quintessentially English liqueur, Sloe Gin.
Guelder Rose (Viburnum opulus)
Despite its common name coming from the Dutch province of Gelderland, this popular variety of Viburnum is a true English native. It brings a natural look to hedgerows and Farm Hedges where it’s long been a regular fixture.
Dog Rose (Rosa canina)
More a scrambling than rambling rose, The Dog Rose’s familiar, attractive and scented flowers bring a subtle flash of pink to mid-summer. But it’s not just a pretty face – its prickles are an effective deterrent. It is also extremely easy to grow.
If you’re old enough to remember Rose Hip Syrup, it’s the Dog Rose you should thank for your sugary dose of Vitamin C!
Field Maple (Acer campestre)
The Field Maple is a hardy, native tree and therefore common in hedgerows. But, as it is slow-growing is also oneof the most useful and popular Native Farm Hedging Varieties. Its leaves turn a lovely, buttery yellow in autumn.
View Our Recommended Hedges
