The Art of Hedgelaying

Following attendance at Hedgelaying Matches in Burton, Uttoxeter, Eccleshall and on his own farm LNRS liaison officer Richard Hollingsworth,  a keen Hedgelayer outlines the importance of this craft.

When a hedge is continually machine cut it eventually becomes weakened with flat growth at the top and open gaps at the bottom, similarly if a hedge is left to grow naturally it becomes tall with gaps and becomes a line of small open trees, in either case the hedge will not fulfil its purpose as a stock proof boundary and have little value for wildlife.

The laying process involves cutting the grown plants , usually quickthorn with an axe or chainsaw and layering/pleaching at an angle which allows the hedge to regenerate providing a dense field boundary and providing shelter, food and protection for wildlife.

Hedgelaying has many regional styles depending on the landscape and type of livestock/ farming in the area. Staffordshire, Derbyshire or Midland Bullock most commonly found in this area.

You don’t have to be a farmer/landowner to be a hedgelayer and many people from all walks of life have taken up this rewarding job sometimes as a pastime but also as an alternative income stream throughout the winter months with rates usually £10 to £15 per metre depending on experience and the size of hedge.

If interested I would recommend enrolling on a training course. These are usually held throughout the country over 2/3 days to find out more nhls.training@hedgelaying.org.uk  you will need a 3 and 7 Lbs axe, a small chainsaw and protective clothing to get started.

Hedges are also important in urban areas and can help to provide shade and shelter not just for wildlife but for people too, and can provide pollution control, prevent soil erosion and flooding.

 Hedges can provide a secure boundary and alternative to walls and fences, if you don’t want a thorny hedge then consider field maple, hornbeams and hazel which also provide some amazing colours throughout the year. Find out more at Hedgelink.org.uk