The ancient craft of hedge laying is experiencing a significant revival among farmers in England. This year, 2,500 farmers applied for government grants to restore and maintain mature hedgerows, using techniques that peaked in the 18th and 19th centuries.
Hedge laying was one of the four most popular categories for capital grants from a total government fund of £225m, allocated for environmental improvements on farms. If approved, these grants will facilitate the laying of 1,300km (800 miles) of mature hedgerows.
The practice involves cutting hedge stems almost completely and laying them at an angle to the ground, which invigorates new growth and restores the hedges. This method is seen as an effective tool for responding to the climate crisis, as mature, maintained hedgerows capture more carbon per hectare than forests, support biodiversity, provide shade for livestock, reduce soil erosion, and help manage rainwater to lessen flood risk.
Megan Gimber, key habitats officer for the People’s Trust for Endangered Species, noted that hedge laying largely ceased after the war, leading to a decline in hedgerows. Stephen Budding, chair of the National Hedgelaying Society, stated that the greatest biodiversity gain comes from laying older hedges and that government grants are crucial for the current surge in work.
Robert Rose, a farmer in Yorkshire, has applied for a Defra grant to lay hedges on his farm, noting the benefits for wildlife, livestock, and conservation. The peak season for hedge laying runs from October to February, and farmers are awaiting decisions on their applications.