Hawthorn Hedging Bare Root 40–60cm

Hardy Native Hedge Plants for Wildlife and Security

Hawthorn, or Crataegus monogyna, is a tough, fast-growing native hedging plant valued for its dense thorny growth, wildlife benefits, and year-round interest. Supplied here as bare root plants 40–60cm tall, it’s the perfect size for economical mass planting while establishing quickly into a thick and protective hedge.

This traditional countryside hedging species thrives in almost any soil and provides excellent habitat for birds and pollinators. In spring, it bursts into life with clusters of scented white flowers, followed by red autumn berries (haws) loved by birds. Its spiny branches make it an effective deterrent hedge for boundary protection.

Key Features

• Supplied Height: 40–60cm (bare root)

• Foliage: Deciduous; deeply lobed green leaves turn yellow in autumn

• Growth Rate: Fast – up to 40–60cm per year

• Mature Height: 3–4m (can be maintained lower)

• Form: Bushy, branching with natural thorns

• Hardiness: Fully hardy across the UK

Planting & Spacing

• Best Time to Plant: November to March (bare root season)

• Spacing:

  • 3–5 plants per metre in a single row

  • 6–7 per metre for a dense staggered double row

• Soil: Any well-drained soil; tolerant of chalk, clay, or poor soils

• Position: Full sun or part shade

• Maintenance: Clip annually to shape and encourage density

Why Choose Hawthorn for Hedging?

• UK native – supports hundreds of insect, bird, and mammal species

• Thorny, secure barrier – ideal for keeping out unwanted visitors

• Seasonal interest – flowers in spring, berries in autumn

• Durable and long-lived – perfect for rural and urban boundaries

• Great for mixed native hedges with blackthorn, hazel, dog rose, and more

Ideal For

• Wildlife gardens and conservation planting

• Field boundaries and countryside restoration

• Natural, rustic-style hedging

• Security hedging due to thorny branches

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

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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.