BBC Gardeners’ World Magazine Podcast The History and Ecology of Hedgerows with Christopher Hart
Nov 21, 2024
Christopher Hart, an expert and author of "Hedgelands, A Wild Wonder Around Britain’s Greatest Habitat," dives into the fascinating world of hedgerows. He reveals their crucial role in biodiversity and wildlife habitats, highlighting their historical decline from 700,000 kilometers to 400,000 due to farming. Hart discusses the ecological benefits of dead hedges and shares insights on traditional hedge laying, emphasizing native plants' importance in gardens. He also shares tips on selecting and managing diverse hedge plants for both beauty and ecological balance.
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Hedgerows as Thicket Replicas
- Hedgerows unintentionally replicate the ecological role of wild thorny thickets, which were removed as the UK converted to farmland.
- These thickets served as shelter for browsing animals, and hedgerows now provide similar benefits.
Ecological Benefits of Hedgerows
- Hedgerows offer ecological benefits beyond wildlife, including reducing wind speed, which is crucial for young plants.
- They also protect against soil erosion and flooding, making them valuable in a changing climate.
Planting a Hedgerow
- Christopher Hart planted a hedgerow on his boggy land, demonstrating its feasibility.
- Hedging plants are affordable and establish quickly, though deer pose a challenge.
