Database

Combine hedge planting with hedge pruning

Habitat	Function	Type of work
Open space	Living environment	Hedge restoration

Open landscape buffer strips will be established and maintained to maintain biodiversity and ecological connectivity. The buffer strips will also protect other ecosystems from pesticides and chemically synthesised mineral fertilisers used on agricultural land. The recommended width of the open space buffer strips is an average of 5 metres, with an optimum of 1-10 metres.

Description of the action

When restoring/renewing hedgerows, combine planting with trimming of the existing hedge to compact the lower part of the hedge. When planting, use locally native hedgerow plants. Plan the species to be planted so that their flowering time is variable.

Why?

Hacks offer the opportunity to connect different natural ecosystems. They provide nesting and sheltering sites for many species of animals and birds, as well as a food base. Grass strips along hedgerows provide habitats for flowers and herbaceous plants. Native plants are adapted to the area’s conditions. Competition from new plants for light and roots should be kept to a minimum. The land should therefore be cleared of vegetation before planting. A variable flowering season provides nectar and pollen for a longer period for species dependent on it.

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