Hazel (Corylus avellana) is a traditional native shrub valued for its fast growth, attractive foliage, and exceptional wildlife benefits. Ideal for natural, informal hedging, it forms a dense, bushy barrier that’s perfect for field boundaries, garden screens, and mixed native hedges.
In early spring, Hazel produces graceful golden catkins before its fresh green leaves emerge, followed by clusters of hazelnuts in autumn — a favourite for wildlife and a treat for foragers. Robust and adaptable, it thrives in most soil types and conditions and responds well to pruning, making it easy to maintain at the desired height and density.
Supplied as bare root plants for November delivery, Hazel is an affordable and effective choice for creating traditional, wildlife-rich hedges.
Key Features:
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Native deciduous shrub with fast, bushy growth – ideal for informal or mixed hedges
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Golden spring catkins and autumn hazelnuts provide year-round seasonal interest
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Excellent for supporting wildlife and biodiversity
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Hardy, easy to grow, and highly adaptable
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Supplied bare root for cost-effective planting from November
Planting & Care:
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Position: Full sun or partial shade
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Soil: Any well-drained soil; tolerant of poor or chalky conditions
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Watering: Water during establishment; low-maintenance once mature
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Pruning: Coppice or trim in winter to maintain shape and encourage new growth
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Spacing: Plant 3–5 per metre for a dense hedge
Design Ideas:
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Plant as part of a mixed native hedge with hawthorn, blackthorn, and field maple
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Use as a natural garden screen or wildlife corridor
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Perfect for rural boundaries and traditional hedgerows
Final Thought:
With its fast growth, seasonal beauty, and outstanding wildlife value, Hazel is a timeless choice for natural hedging. Delivered bare root from November, it’s a cost-effective and eco-friendly way to create thriving, biodiverse boundaries.
Pros:
- Cost-Effective: Bare root plants are generally cheaper than potted plants.
- Variety: Greater selection of species available.
- Establishment: Often establish quickly in the garden.
Cons:
- Timing: Must be planted during the dormant season (late autumn to early spring).
- Initial Care: Require careful handling and timely planting.
Preparation for Planting:
- Soak Roots: Immerse the roots in water for a few hours before planting to rehydrate them.
- Inspect: Trim any damaged roots with clean, sharp scissors.
- Dig Hole: Ensure the hole is wide enough to spread roots out without bending them.
- Consider Cutting back: Cutting back by up to 1/3, especially on taller plants will reduce possible losses and improve plant establishment.
Planting Process:
- Plant Depth: Plant at the same depth they were grown in the nursery, indicated by the soil mark on the stem.
- Fill Hole: Backfill with soil, ensuring no air pockets around the roots.
- 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:
- Watering: Keep the soil moist but not waterlogged during the establishment period.
- Mulching: Apply mulch around the base to retain moisture and suppress weeds.
- 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
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.