Last winter we managed to plant up a nice mixed hedge around the vegetable garden. It’s purpose is to provide shelter in the garden and create a microclimate. The trees (700 approximately) are from a local nursery that source locally, harvested seeds and grow on the whips.

Included in the mix is lots of hawthorn and hazel, interspersed with: guelder rose, wild roses, rowan, crab apple, wild damson, wild pear, alder buckthorn, honeysuckle, dogwood, silver birch, field maple, dog rose… possibly more things, I forget.

The hedge completely encircles the veg patch, with the most flowery elements on the house side. It will provide a beautiful view from the “kitchen” and the “sunroom”, whilst providing a lovely flower and fruit filled habitat in just a few years.