E2BN Gallery

Hedge laying is the art of cutting a hedgerow stem partly through so it will bend without breaking but will continue to grow. The laid stems are arranged to form a stockproof barrier. New growth comes from the cut stump rejuvenating the hedge and thickening the base. A well-laid hedge provides a habitat for many wild birds, plants and insects. Hedges are laid to make them stockproof. They can then be cut or trimmed to keep them the desired size or left to grow freely until relaying is needed (15-50 years later) depending on species and local conditions. This recently laid hedge was pictured at Odell Bedfordshire Spring 2005.