Hedgelaying

**Benefits of Hedgelaying:**
– Creates livestock-proof barriers
– Provides habitat for various wildlife species
– Helps rejuvenate existing hedgerows
– Controls flood risk, improves water quality, and reduces soil erosion
– Offers weather protection for crops and wildlife

**Theory and Practice of Hedgelaying:**
– Objective is to reduce the thickness of upright stems
– Pleachers are laid down for new growth
– Importance of trimmed stool for new growth
– Removal of brash or brush
– Utilization of upright stakes and binders for strength

**Local Styles of Hedgelaying:**
– Midland Style: Found in beef rearing areas, with specific techniques for Leicestershire, Northamptonshire, Oxfordshire, and Warwickshire
– Derbyshire Style: Originating from a mixed farming and sheep area, with distinctive square, sawn stakes and weaving techniques
– Double Staked Styles: Utilized in Somerset and Lancashire, with variations like Lancashire style (double row of stakes) and Westmorland style (single row of stakes down the center)
– Brecon Style: Practiced in Breconshire, Radnorshire, Herefordshire, and Monmouthshire, featuring specific techniques for stake placement and weaving
– Montgomery Style: Known for wide hedges, closely woven pleachers, and lack of binding

**Regional Hedgelaying Styles:**
– West Country Hedges: Different styles seen in Devon, Cornwall, and parts of Wales, with unique features like steepers, stone-facing, and crooks for securing
– Isle of Wight Style: Informal and wide style with crooked hazel stakes, effective for stockproof barriers
– Yorkshire Style: Low hedge design with wind barrier bushes and dense bases to prevent sheep intrusion
– Motorway Style: Modern approach with post and rail fences, focusing on stockproofing and incorporating live stakes method

**International Hedgelaying Styles:**
– Netherlands: Distinct hedgelaying styles with tall standards laid back over the hedge
– Germany: Uses red beech for shielding and protection in hedgelaying
– Australia: Re-emerging practice, especially in Tasmania, showcasing interest in traditional hedgelaying techniques.