Blackthorn (Prunus spinosa) is a tough, native deciduous shrub beloved for its dense, thorny growth and seasonal beauty. Perfect for wildlife-friendly hedging, it creates a secure, stock-proof barrier that’s ideal for gardens, fields, and natural boundaries.

In early spring, Blackthorn bursts into a profusion of pure white flowers before its leaves appear, bringing a welcome splash of brightness. These are followed by sloes — small dark fruits perfect for making sloe gin and attracting birds and other wildlife. Hardy and fast-growing, it thrives in most soils and conditions, requiring little maintenance once established.

Supplied as bare root plants (60–100 cm) and delivered from November, Blackthorn is an excellent, cost-effective choice for larger hedging projects and naturalistic planting schemes.

Key Features:

• Native deciduous shrub with dense, thorny growth – ideal for secure hedging

• Masses of white spring blossom and autumn sloes for wildlife and foraging

• Hardy, fast-growing, and low-maintenance

• Excellent for field boundaries, wildlife corridors, or mixed native hedges

• Bare root plants (60–100 cm) delivered November, perfect for winter planting

Planting & Care:

• Position: Full sun to partial shade

• Soil: Any well-drained soil, including poor or chalky soils

• Watering: Water well during the first season; low-maintenance once established

• Pruning: Trim after flowering or in winter to maintain shape

• Spacing: Plant 3–5 per metre for a dense hedge

Design Ideas:

• Create a wildlife-rich native hedge for gardens, fields, or rural boundaries

• Use as a thorny security barrier around properties or livestock areas

• Combine with hawthorn, dog rose, or field maple for a mixed native hedge

Final Thought:
With its tough, thorny structure, beautiful spring blossom, and wildlife-friendly sloes, Blackthorn is a timeless choice for secure, natural hedging. Delivered as bare root plants from November, it’s a cost-effective way to establish a thriving hedge over winter.

Pros:

1. Cost-Effective: Bare root plants are generally cheaper than potted plants.
2. Variety: Greater selection of species available.
3. Establishment: Often establish quickly in the garden.

Cons:

1. Timing: Must be planted during the dormant season (late autumn to early spring).
2. Initial Care: Require careful handling and timely planting.

Preparation for Planting:

1. Soak Roots: Immerse the roots in water for a few hours before planting to rehydrate them.
2. Inspect: Trim any damaged roots with clean, sharp scissors.
3. Dig Hole: Ensure the hole is wide enough to spread roots out without bending them.
4. Consider Cutting back: Cutting back by up to 1/3, especially on taller plants will reduce possible losses and improve plant establishment.

Planting Process:

1. Plant Depth: Plant at the same depth they were grown in the nursery, indicated by the soil mark on the stem.
2. Fill Hole: Backfill with soil, ensuring no air pockets around the roots.
3. Water: Water thoroughly after planting to settle the soil around the roots.

Possibility of Losses:

• Adjustment Period: Some plants may not survive the transition due to transplant shock or poor initial care.
• Mitigation: Proper planting techniques and aftercare, like regular watering and mulching, can reduce losses.

Aftercare Tips:

1. Watering: Keep the soil moist but not waterlogged during the establishment period.
2. Mulching: Apply mulch around the base to retain moisture and suppress weeds.
3. Protection: Protect young plants from extreme weather and pests.

Bare root planting is a straightforward, economical way to enhance your garden, provided you follow these essential steps to ensure successful establishment.

Full Guide to planting bare root can be found here

Blackthorn Hedging Bare Root 60-100 cm Delivery Jan/Feb Grasslands Nursery

Does the height include the pot?

No, we measure from the top of the pot to the tip of the plant except for some of the instant planted screens, in this case it will be stated in the description

How long does delivery take?

Most orders are delivered in just a few days, Smaller items are often sent with Parcelforce on a next day service, Larger items should allow up to 10 days due to the size of the items they often have to be sent on our own transport.

Where will you leave my plants?

We will leave your order at the front of your property, Parcelforce may
leave your items in a safe place if you let us know, Pallet couriers
will require a flat hard surface to deliver to, no gravel or soil, a
driveway or parking spot would be best. Most importantly Deliveries by
pallet courier will require access for a large truck (bin lorry sized)
to get near the delivery point. Deliveries sent on our own transport may come in a small van or larger truck.