Hedges at Lower Blakemere

At Lower Blakemere Farm, our hedgerows stretch for about 27 kilometres across the landscape, providing not just boundaries but crucial habitats for wildlife. Over the years, we’ve extended and planted new hedgerows, linking older sections to create a continuous network of native species that benefits both the farm and the environment.

The Role of Hedges in Farming

Hedgerows have been a key part of British farming for centuries, traditionally planted to mark field boundaries and keep livestock secure. However, their importance goes far beyond that. Hedges offer shelter, prevent soil erosion, and serve as natural windbreaks, all while helping to filter water and reduce pollution. At Lower Blakemere, we’ve planted native species like hawthorn, blackthorn, hazel, field maple, and dog rose, which provide food and shelter for wildlife. Among the species, wild honeysuckle also plays a role, attracting pollinators such as bees, moths, and butterflies.

Seasonal Harvest from the Hedges

The hedgerows provide more than just ecological benefits—they also offer a seasonal bounty. In autumn, the hedges are full of blackberries, sloes, rosehips, and hazelnuts, which are harvested for jams, sloe gin, and other homemade products. These hedgerow fruits are also a crucial food source for wildlife, particularly as the colder months approach.

Hedgerows as a Wildlife Haven

Hedgerows are a vital habitat for a range of wildlife, offering food, shelter, and corridors for movement across the landscape. Here’s a closer look at how different species benefit from the hedges:

Birds: Hedgerows are a nesting and feeding ground for many bird species. Wrens, robins, blackbirds, and sparrows make their nests within the dense hedges, while thrushes and other birds feast on the berries. Birds of prey like buzzards and kestrels use the hedges as vantage points for hunting.
Mammals: Small mammals, including hedgehogs, use hedgerows for shelter and food. Rabbits and hares also find refuge here, while bats use the hedges as flight paths, hunting insects along the way.
Insects: Hedgerows are teeming with insects like beetles, butterflies, bees, and hoverflies. The flowers from species like wild honeysuckle provide nectar for pollinators, which in turn support the wider ecosystem.
Reptiles and Amphibians: The cool, shady areas around the base of hedges offer shelter for frogs, toads, and newts, particularly near water sources. Grass snakes may also be seen basking along the hedge line.

Managing Our Hedges

We carefully manage our hedgerows to ensure they remain healthy and productive, both for the farm and the wildlife they support. We trim them regularly to maintain shape and encourage dense growth, but we also allow annual growth so that the hedges can flower and fruit each year. This approach supports biodiversity, providing resources for pollinators and food for birds and small mammals.Expected Results and Timeline:
By managing the hedgerows carefully, we expect the following outcomes:

Short-term (1-3 years): Improvements in habitat quality, leading to increased biodiversity and better soil and water management.
Mid-term (3-5 years): Significant reduction in soil erosion and nutrient runoff, with healthier waterways and increased wildlife populations.
Long-term (5+ years): Establishment of resilient ecosystems, where the hedges support a thriving and diverse range of species year-round.

Anticipated Environmental Impact:

Enhanced Biodiversity: Increased numbers of birds, mammals, and insects benefiting from the hedgerows.
Improved Water and Soil Quality: Cleaner runoff and less soil erosion, contributing to healthier farmland and waterways.
Climate Resilience: Hedges act as natural windbreaks and provide shade, making the landscape more resilient to extreme weather events like droughts and floods.

Hedges as a Key Part of Sustainable Farming

Hedgerows are a cornerstone of sustainable farming, and their benefits extend far beyond their role as field boundaries. By providing habitats for wildlife, improving soil and water quality, and supporting biodiversity, hedgerows contribute to a more balanced and resilient ecosystem. At Lower Blakemere Farm, we’re committed to maintaining and enhancing our hedgerows, ensuring they continue to provide these vital benefits for years to come.