Planning a new hedge

This chapter gives information on choosing suitable shrubs for different types of hedge, with the emphasis on stockproof hedges, and ‘wildlife’ or ‘conservation’ hedges. Information is given on the planting, protection and early care of hedges. Although this chapter is mainly aimed at those wanting to plant new hedges, much of the information is also relevant when making decisions about management of an existing hedge, including planting gaps and protecting new plantings. The species descriptions of hedgerow shrubs are useful when making a choice for new hedges, as well as being of general interest.