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. They turned to Essex-based HedgeLife, a company passionate about improving the UK’s hedgerow network.
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.
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 Greentech, 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.
Designed to protect young broadleaf trees, the Tubex Ecowrap tree shelter is an environmentally conscious choice. Made of nonbiodegradable 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.
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.
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.
