Hedgerows' history intertwines with political changes, riots, and agricultural development. Despite fluctuations in popularity, they hold cultural significance, aiding biodiversity and combating climate change.
The 'Hooper formula' can date a hedge from the number of tree and shrub species in a 30 metre length, with one species for each 100 years.
A single species hedge is likely to be less than 100 years old whilst a 1,000 year old hedge is likely to contain ten to twelve species.
Hedges are in decline
In the 1950s, there were over 1 million kilometers of hedges, but by 2007, this decreased to 500,000 kilometers. The Hedgerow Regulations Act in 1997 aimed to limit hedge removal, and despite reduced loss rates, neglect and damage still pose risks. The BN11 program launched in 2015 subsidizes hedging with up to £100 towards plant costs. Visit the website for more details.
Hedges are crucial for wildlife and protecting us from pollution
Hedges are also crucial wildlife habitats in the UK, supporting diverse flora and fauna by providing shelter and food sources for all sorts of birds, insects and mammals.
Hedges serve as more than just boundaries and have multiple benefits like cleaning air, capturing carbon, and preventing flooding.
If you found this post helpful head over to our instagram account and follow for more hand tips and gardening makeovers.
Commentaires