Native Hedging

What Can Native Hedging Be Used For?

Native hedging (bare root) is one of the most versatile and environmentally beneficial options for landscaping. Comprising a mix of traditional British species such as Hawthorn, Blackthorn, Hazel, Dogwood, Guelder Rose, Spindle (Euonymus) and Field Maple, native hedging supports biodiversity while offering practical and aesthetic benefits.

When handling bare root hedging, it’s important to keep the roots moist and plant promptly to ensure healthy establishment.

Native hedging plans for your outdoor space may include:

• Privacy screen/property border: Dense and varied growth creates an effective screen and natural boundary, enhancing both security and privacy.

• Security barrier: Many native species, like Hawthorn and Blackthorn, include thorny growth, providing a natural deterrent to intruders.

• Windbreaks: Planted in staggered rows, native hedging forms a strong windbreak, protecting gardens, crops, and property.

• Wildlife habitat: One of the greatest strengths of native hedging is its ability to attract birds, pollinators, and mammals. It provides food, shelter, and nesting opportunities year-round.

• Seasonal interest: From spring blossoms to autumn berries and colourful foliage, native hedging brings changing beauty to gardens and landscapes.

• Noise reduction: The dense foliage of mixed species hedging helps absorb and deflect noise from nearby roads or neighbours.

• Formal or informal landscaping: Native hedging can be trimmed neatly for a structured appearance or left to grow naturally for a softer, wilder effect.

Advantages of Native Hedging

Native hedging offers an array of benefits, making it both a practical and environmentally conscious choice:

• Dense growth: Provides effective privacy and boundary definition.

• Supports biodiversity: Attracts pollinators, birds, and small mammals, helping local ecosystems thrive.

• Year-round interest: Spring flowers, summer greenery, autumn berries, and winter structure keep it visually appealing.

• Adaptability: Thrives in a wide range of soil types, including clay and chalk, provided the ground is well-drained.

• Low maintenance: Once established, native hedging is hardy and requires minimal upkeep.

• Cold and drought tolerance: Suited to the UK climate, withstanding harsh winters and dry summers.

• Environmentally responsible: Being locally native, it fits naturally into the landscape and supports native wildlife.

• Longevity: With proper care, native hedges can last for decades, becoming an enduring feature of your outdoor space.

Exploring Native Hedging Varieties

At Grasslands, our bare root native hedging mixes are carefully selected to suit different needs:

• Mixed Native Hedging (Bare Root 40–60cm): Cost-effective and perfect for establishing a boundary hedge. With multiple species, this option enhances biodiversity and seasonal interest.

• Mixed Native Hedging (Bare Root 60–100cm): Taller plants for faster establishment of a dense hedge. Excellent for creating a barrier more quickly.

• Single Species Native Hedges: Options such as Hawthorn, Blackthorn, or Hazel can be planted individually or blended into mixed rows for variety.

Bare root hedging is generally available during the dormant season (late autumn through winter), making it the ideal time to plant.

Planting and Establishment

When planting bare root native hedging, follow these key steps:

1. Where to Plant:
   Choose well-drained soil in full sun to partial shade. Plan your hedge line with desired height and density in mind.

2. Soil Preparation:
   Remove weeds and debris, loosen the soil, and enrich it with compost or manure for strong root growth.

3. Spacing:
   For a dense hedge, plant 4–5 plants per metre in a staggered double row, 40cm apart.

4. Planting Bare Roots:

   • Soak the roots in water before planting.

   • Dig a trench wide enough for the roots.

   • Spread out roots naturally, ensuring the root collar is at soil level.

   • Backfill, firm soil gently, and water well.

5. Watering and Mulching:
   Keep soil moist until established. Mulching helps conserve moisture and suppress weeds.

6. Pruning:
   Lightly trim after planting to encourage bushy growth. Ongoing pruning keeps the hedge tidy or can be left for a wilder look.

Maintenance and Pruning Native Hedges

Native hedging requires minimal upkeep once established but will benefit from seasonal care:

• Pruning: Late winter or early spring pruning encourages thicker growth and maintains shape.

• Watering: Regular watering in the first couple of years helps establishment, especially during dry spells.

• Fertilising: Apply organic matter or slow-release fertiliser if soil quality is poor.

• Monitoring: Keep an eye out for pests or disease, though native species are generally hardy and resilient.

Frequently Asked Questions

When is the best time to plant native hedging?
Bare root hedging is best planted between November and March, while the plants are dormant.

How fast does native hedging grow?
Growth rates vary by species. Hawthorn and Blackthorn, for example, grow around 30–60cm per year once established.

Can native hedging be used in both formal and informal gardens?
Yes. Trim regularly for formal hedges or leave to grow freely for a natural, wildlife-friendly boundary.