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5 January 2026
Call: 01588 650 496 for expert help & advice
Call: 01588 650 496 for expert help & advice
Planting a rural hedge is one of the most effective ways to enhance biodiversity, strengthen field boundaries, and create long-lasting landscape structure on farms and rural properties across the UK. One of the most common questions we receive at Farm Forestry is: “How far apart should I space my hedging plants?”
Correct spacing is essential for establishing a dense, healthy, and resilient hedge, yet the ideal distance varies depending on species, planting purpose, and desired growth rate. In this guide, we focus specifically on mixed native hedging, which is the most popular choice for farms, estates, and countryside stewardship projects across the UK, although, similar spacing can also be used for single species hedging.
Mixed hedgerows include species such as hawthorn, blackthorn, hazel, dog rose, spindle, field maple, and others. Each species has its own natural growth habit, but when planted together in the right pattern, they form a thick and diverse hedge that is:
Correct spacing allows each species to grow harmoniously without excessive competition, ensuring a balanced, healthy hedge whilst allowing for an attrition rate in new plantings.
Double Row (Most Common for Rural Hedgerows)
Spacing:
This double-row configuration is ideal for countryside hedges, agricultural boundaries, and wildlife corridors. It ensures fast establishment and produces a thick, stock-resilient hedge within a few years.
Single Row (For Tight Spaces or Lighter Boundaries)
Spacing:
A single row works well where space is limited or where a lighter hedge is acceptable, but for most rural applications, especially where livestock or environmental benefits are priorities, the double row is recommended.
For mixed hedging planted in a double row:
For a single row:
At Farm Forestry we supply a wide range of hedging plants and are only a phone call away should you need any tailored advice for your project regarding spacing.
1. Mix Species Randomly
When planting, avoid grouping single species together. A natural scatter of plants creates:
2. Plant in the Dormant Season
Bare-root hedging should be planted between November and March, when plants are dormant and root establishment is strongest.
3. Use Shelters and Canes
It is essential to protect young hedges from rabbits, deer, and livestock using spiral guards and bamboo canes– This greatly improves survival rates.
4. Weed Control
Weeds compete heavily with young hedging plants. Maintain a clear strip around the hedge during the first 2–3 years with applications of herbicide or hand hook weeding. (Farm forestry- Sprayers and hand weeding tools).
Mixed native hedging is the best option for farms and rural estates because it mimics natural hedgerows and provides year-round ecological benefits. Typical mixes from Farm Forestry may contain:
This blend provides structure, seasonal interest, flowers, berries, and excellent habitat for birds and insects. Here at Farm Forestry, we hold a large stock of quality bare root hedging plants ready for your project.
Farm Forestry supplies high-quality, bare-root hedging plants ideal for rural projects, stewardship schemes, and land restoration. Our mixed hedging, shelters, and planting accessories help ensure strong establishment and support vigorous early growth, giving your new hedge the best possible start.
Whether you’re planting 100 metres or several kilometres of hedgerow, if you’d like tailored advice on species selection or planting plans, we’re happy to help: email us at sales@farmforestry.co.uk or call our office on 01588 650 496.
