Native Mixed Hedging Plants for Wildlife

What Is Mixed Native Hedging?

Mixed native hedging is planted using a selection of native trees and shrubs rather than a single hedge species.

Depending on the mixture, it may include plants such as Hawthorn, Blackthorn, Field Maple, Hazel, Dog Rose, Guelder Rose and Holly. Each species contributes different foliage, flowers, fruit, stems or growth habits.

The result is generally less uniform than a formal single-species hedge. It develops into a varied boundary with changing colour, texture and structure through the seasons.

The precise composition varies between products and may also vary according to plant availability. Always check the individual mix description before ordering if a particular species is important to you.

Why Choose a Mixed Native Hedge?

Seasonal Interest

A mixture of species can provide interest at different points of the year.

Depending on the plants included, a native hedge may produce spring blossom, summer foliage, autumn colour, berries, hips, nuts and attractive winter stems.

Most mixed native hedging is predominantly deciduous, so it should not be described as a fully evergreen screen. Some mixtures include an evergreen element, but the exact proportion and level of winter coverage will vary.

Food and Shelter for Wildlife

A mixed native hedge can provide flowers, fruit, seeds, shelter and nesting opportunities for a range of garden wildlife.

Different species offer resources at different times, making a varied hedge especially useful where wildlife value is an important part of the planting project.

A new hedge will need time to grow and develop before it provides the density and cover of an established hedgerow.

A Natural-Looking Boundary

Native mixed hedging is well suited to informal gardens, rural boundaries and landscaping schemes where a varied appearance is preferred.

It can be maintained as a clipped garden hedge or allowed to develop into a broader and more natural-looking boundary. The amount of space available and the intended finished height should be considered before planting.

Suitable for Longer Planting Projects

Many mixed native hedge packs are available as bare root plants during the dormant season. Bare root plants are relatively light and can provide an economical way to establish a longer hedge line.

Pot-grown and instant mixed hedging options may also be available where a different planting season or greater initial impact is required.

Choosing the Right Native Hedge Mix

Different mixtures are designed for different locations and priorities. Check the species list and product details rather than choosing by price alone.

Field Wildlife Hedging Mix

The Field Wildlife Hedging Mix is a traditional choice for rural boundaries, longer hedge lines and informal planting.

It contains a combination of native species selected to create a varied hedge with seasonal interest and wildlife value. Check the product page for the current composition and available sizes.

Garden Wildlife Hedging Mix

The Garden Wildlife Hedging Mix contains a broader selection of species chosen to add colour and interest to a domestic garden boundary.

It may be suitable where flowers, berries and varied foliage are priorities as well as the practical purpose of the hedge.

Horse Safe Hedging Mix

The Horse Safe Hedging Mix is intended for customers planting around paddocks or areas used by horses.

Read the full species list and product information before ordering. Consider the complete site, including any existing plants, neighbouring vegetation and other material accessible to grazing animals.

Thornless Hedging Mix

The Thornless Hedging Mix is worth considering for boundaries close to paths, play areas and frequently used parts of the garden.

It provides a more accessible alternative to mixtures based heavily on thorny species such as Hawthorn and Blackthorn.

Countryside Stewardship BN11 Hedging Mix

Our Countryside Stewardship mix is intended for customers who need a specified native hedge mixture for an agricultural or environmental planting project.

Grant conditions and planting specifications can change, so check the current requirements of your individual agreement before ordering plants or beginning work.

Instant CountryHedge

Instant CountryHedge is supplied as established, pre-grown sections rather than individual young bare root plants.

It provides more immediate height, structure and coverage, making it suitable where a traditional mixed hedge appearance is required without waiting for smaller plants to grow together.

Bare Root, Pot-Grown or Instant Mixed Hedging?

Bare Root Native Hedge Plants

Bare root mixed hedging is lifted and supplied during the dormant season, generally from autumn to early spring.

Find out more about bare root hedge plants and planting season before ordering.

It is usually the most economical choice for longer hedge lines but should be planted promptly after delivery. The exposed roots must be kept protected from drying winds, sunlight and frost.

Pot Grown Mixed Hedging

Pot-grown native hedge plants can generally be planted across the seasons, provided the ground is workable and sufficient water is available.

They provide greater flexibility over planting dates but usually cost more than smaller bare root plants.

Instant Mixed Hedging

Instant mixed hedging is supplied as established sections that have already been grown together.

It provides greater initial coverage but is heavier to handle and requires more planning for delivery, movement and installation.

How Many Native Hedge Plants Do I Need?

The correct planting density depends on the mixture, plant size, root type and the specification of the project.

Many mixed native hedges are planted in a staggered double row to create a broad, dense boundary. However, not every product uses the same number of plants per metre.

Use the quantity calculator or planting instructions on the relevant product page. Countryside Stewardship and other specified projects may require a particular density that differs from normal garden planting.

Measure the complete planting line before ordering and allow for gates, access points and sections where planting is not possible.

How to Plant Native Mixed Hedging

Prepare the Planting Line

Remove grass, perennial weeds and unwanted roots from the planting area before delivery.

For a double row, mark two parallel lines and position the plants alternately so they form a staggered pattern. This distributes the different species naturally along the length of the hedge.

Prepare a trench or individual planting positions wide enough for the roots to spread without being bent or forced into the soil.

Improve the Soil with Hedge Planting Compost

Where the existing soil would benefit from improvement, mix Hedge Planting Compost with the excavated soil before backfilling.

Our peat-free Hedge Planting Compost is a soil conditioner intended to improve the structure of the existing soil. It should be mixed with the soil from the planting area rather than used to fill the complete trench on its own.

Compost will not correct serious drainage problems, so waterlogged or heavily compacted ground should be addressed before planting.

Apply Rootgrow When Planting

Rootgrow mycorrhizal fungi can be applied at planting to help support the developing relationship between the roots and beneficial fungi.

For bare root hedge plants, use the appropriate Rootgrow product and follow the preparation and application instructions on its packaging. Rootgrow must come into direct contact with the roots.

Apply it during planting rather than scattering it over the soil surface afterwards. Rootgrow is used once and does not replace correct planting, watering or weed control.

Position the Different Species

Distribute the species throughout the planting line rather than placing every plant of one variety together, unless the product instructions specify otherwise.

Position each plant at approximately the same depth at which it was previously growing. Spread bare roots naturally, backfill with the prepared soil and firm gently to remove large air pockets.

Water thoroughly after planting, even if rain is forecast.

Watering and Hedge Irrigation

Regular watering is essential while a newly planted native hedge establishes.

Water deeply around the complete root area rather than applying a small amount to the soil surface. The amount and frequency required will depend on the weather, soil, plant size and root type.

Long hedge lines can be difficult and time-consuming to water evenly by hand. Porous pipe or a drip irrigation system can help distribute water along the planting row.

Position the pipe close to the root areas and check the entire system regularly. Do not assume that every plant is receiving the same amount of water simply because the system is running.

Continue monitoring the soil during dry weather throughout the first growing season and for longer where conditions require it.

Protecting Native Hedge Plants from Rabbits

Young native hedge plants can be vulnerable to damage from rabbits and other grazing animals, particularly in rural gardens, fields and open planting sites.

Where rabbits are present, fit a suitable spiral guard supported by a bamboo cane around each young plant. The bamboo cane helps keep the guard upright and reduces movement in windy conditions.

Guards must be checked regularly to make sure they have not become loose, damaged or restrictive. They should not be relied upon as protection from deer, livestock or more severe grazing pressure, where appropriate fencing may be required.

Feeding Your Native Hedge After Planting

Hedge Feed can be used as part of the hedge’s aftercare once the plants are in the ground.

Apply the granular feed over the soil around the root area according to the instructions on the packaging. Keep concentrated fertiliser away from direct contact with stems and exposed roots, then water the area after application.

Bare root hedging is normally planted while dormant, so feeding is most useful when the plants are beginning active growth. Do not apply more than the recommended quantity.

Feeding will not compensate for insufficient watering, weed competition, poor drainage or unsuitable planting conditions.

Caring for a New Native Hedge

Control Grass and Weeds

Grass and weeds compete strongly with young hedge plants for water and nutrients.

Maintain a clear strip around the hedge while it establishes. Hand weeding, suitable mulch or an appropriate weed-control system can be used depending on the location and scale of the planting.

Apply Mulch

A layer of organic Hedge Bio Mulch can help retain soil moisture and reduce weed growth.

Spread it around the planting area while leaving a small clear space around each stem. Do not pile mulch directly against the plants.

Replace Failures Promptly

Inspect the hedge during its first growing season and identify any plants that have failed to establish.

Replacing losses while the hedge is young helps maintain an even planting density and prevents larger gaps from developing.

Trim with Wildlife in Mind

Mixed native hedges can be clipped to create a denser boundary or managed less formally to encourage flowers and fruit.

Before trimming, check the hedge carefully for active bird nests and other wildlife. Avoid cutting every section heavily at the same time where retaining flowers, berries and shelter is a priority.

If a mixed native hedge is not the right choice for your project, you can compare our full range of hedges, including evergreen, formal, flowering and privacy varieties.