Skip to main content

Events > Introduction to Hedge Laying

CAFRE

Introduction to Hedge Laying

Various Dates

Greenmount Campus

CAFRE is hosting practical hedge laying courses at Greenmount Campus, Antrim.  These hands-on one day introductory courses aim to demonstrate the skills and techniques involved with laying a hedge.

Courses on Thursday 23rd January 20025 and Thursday 6th February 2025 are now fully booked.

Hedge laying is the traditional method of rejuvenating hedgerows to maximise the shelter and biodiversity opportunities that hedges provide on farms. Hedges are particularly important due to the low proportion of woodland in Northern Ireland.

Hedges enhance the appearance of the countryside, maintain our traditional field boundaries and provide a valuable habitat for a variety of plants and animals.

Hedge laying involves partially cutting the stems of the hedge plants and laying them uphill at approximately 30 degrees. The hedge produces new growth from the base and the laid stems continue to grow over the medium term. This results in a thicker hedge that is better for biodiversity, shelter and is more stockproof.

Programme

Session 1: Background: 10.00am – 11.30am

  • Overview of hedges and their value
  • Differing styles of hedge laying across the UK
  • Overview of the tools used and safety considerations

Session 2: Practical: 11.30am – 4.00pm

  • Attendees will have the opportunity get practical experience by laying a section of hedge

Register interest