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bird friendly hedging

• Message 1. 

  Posted by pennymax (U15171449) on Saturday, 3rd March 2012

  I would like advice on which hedging to plant that is fast growing, no bare patches at the bottom (like leylandi) . most of all Bird Friendly.

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• Message 2

  , in reply to message 1.

  Posted by Thesassenach (U14884672) on Saturday, 3rd March 2012

  The best will be a mixed native hedge, though you'll have to be quick as the planting season for bare root plants is ending. 50% Hawthorn, 25% Blackthorn, and the the rest a mix of others: Guelder Rose, Dog Rose, Wayfaring tree, Elder and Crab Apple would all be bird friendly.
  
  Otherwise, try Pyracantha, as the birds love the berries, though it wouldn't be as good for the insects they need.

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  Posted by Obelixx (U2157162) on Saturday, 3rd March 2012

  It's regular trimming that keeps native hedges green to the bottom and thick for bird cover. Our hawthorn hedge can put on 6' in one season. It provides nectar for insects, prickly shelter for birds to nest and perch plus berries in autumn. Pyracantha also has nectar for insects and berries for birds and provides another prickly haven for birds to nest and roost. It's also evergreen except in harsh winters.
  
  Make sure you prepare teh soil well bu digging over a trench at least a foot deep and 18inches wide nadt then improving teh soil with plenty of garden compost and well rotted manure. Soak bare root plants in luke warm water for 30 minutes before planting so their roots ar rehydrated. trim off any very long or broken roots.
  
  Plants in pots need to have their root ball soaked till air bubbles stop rising.
  
  Both sorts will need watering in and will appreciate a feed of scattered pelleted chicken manure or blood fish and bone after planting and every spring. Keep the hedge waterd in its first growing season.

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