Hayley’s Farm wanted to improve the environmental credentials of the farm.
One goal was to plant 4,500 meters of new hedgerows and to lay 1,300 meters of existing hedgerows. This effort is part of a broader initiative to improve connectivity across the landscape and to create diverse wildlife habitats.
They turned to Essex-based HedgeLife, a company passionate about improving the UK’s hedgerow network. Working for farmers, landowners, and domestic clients, HedgeLife plants, lays and coppices hedges.
Ian Metson, the owner of HedgeLife has a long-standing relationship with leading landscape supplier Green-tech and used 4000 meters of EcoMatt weed prevention mat, 27,000 Ecowrap tree shelters, and 27,000 supporting bamboo canes for this project.
EcoMatt. An environmentally friendly weed prevention mat that degrades over two growing seasons and helps to suppress competing weed growth within the vicinity of the tree root development area. Manufactured in the UK, exclusively for Green-tech, Ecomatt is made from 100% recycled materials that allow water and air to percolate through the wool layer and help retain moisture during drought. The matting also acts as an insulator and absorbs heat from the sun thus creating an assisted environment for the plant to establish itself.
Ecowrap tree shelters. Designed to protect young broadleaf trees, the Tubex Ecowrap tree shelter is an environmentally conscious choice. Made of non-biodegradable polypropylene, which offers durability and longevity compared to traditional materials, EcoWrap is a new tree guard with many innovative features to protect trees in an environmentally friendly manner. Not only are they fast and straightforward to install, but the Tubex Ecowrap Tree Shelter Guards also trap heat and moisture around the tree to boost survival rates and create the best growing environment possible. The guards expand alongside the tree, providing plenty of space to ensure it isn’t suffocated as it grows.
Canes. Green-tech’s bamboo canes provide crucial support to the young hedgerow plants, ensuring they grow straight and strong. This initial support is vital for establishing a robust and healthy hedgerow.
HedgeLife took a comprehensive approach to the hedgerow project at Hayley’s Farm. They planned the planting and laying of hedgerows to optimise environmental benefits. Green-tech’s materials were central to their strategy, ensuring that the plants were well-protected and had the best possible start.
Ian Metson from HedgeLife explains, "Working with Green-tech has been a seamless experience. Their products are high quality and align with our commitment to sustainability. The project at Hayley’s Farm exemplifies how sustainable agricultural practices and quality materials can create significant environmental benefits. This hedgerow will improve the farm's ecological credentials and establish vital wildlife habitats, contributing to broader biodiversity goals.
“Green-tech’s products, such as Ecowrap matting and EcoMatt guards, played a crucial role in the success of this initiative.”
The farm has seen immediate benefits from the project. The newly planted and laid hedgerows are thriving, and the landscape connectivity has been greatly improved. The presence of the hedgerows has already started attracting a variety of wildlife, fulfilling the ecological goals of the project.
James Padfield from Hayley’s Farm adds, “The transformation on our farm is remarkable. The new hedgerows enhance the beauty of our landscape but also provide essential habitats for wildlife. We are grateful to HedgeLife for their expertise and high-quality materials, which made this possible."
For more information on the products used, visit Green-tech
