Native hawthorn hedge

Because of its thorns, hawthorn hedges are naturally stock-proof. Traditionally managed ones are 'layed' - stems are partially cut through every two to three years and then bent down, meaning that they bush out lower down. Modern trimming techniques with a flail cutter or other mechhanical method means that they bush out higher up. However, hawthorn hedges  provide flowers and berries for insects and birds, as well as perfect habitat for nesting birds.  Plant between three and five plants per metre, either in a single or double staggered rows. After planting, trim down to half their height to encourage them to bush out. Keep weeded around the base in the first couple of years. Do this by pulling or tramping grass, by mulching. Do NOT use a strimmer near young plants as you run the risk of strimming them down. When your plants are delivered they will be wrapped in a moisture-proof black plastic bag. Make sure thay they are kept out of frost and that the bag remains tied closed. The roots MUST NOT dry out. Do not lay out large numbers of plants prior to planting - keep them in their bag as long as possible.

When to cut or trim your native hawthorn hedge

Always follow the current legstlation, which is there to protect nesting and feeding birds:

Section 40 of the Wildlife Act 1976, incorporating section 46 of the Wildlife (Amendment) Act 2000

(a) It shall be an offence for a person to cut, grub, burn or otherwise destroy, during the period beginning on the 1st day of March and ending on the 31st day of August in any year, any vegetation growing on any land not then cultivated.

(b) It shall be an offence for a person to cut grub, burn or otherwise destroy any vegetation growing in any hedge or ditch during the period mentioned in paragraph (a ) of this subsection. 

 Images of Native Hawthorn hedge, Co Down (Crataegus monogyna)