Hedge Code

Helping you plant, retain and rejuvenate your hedgerows—part of Ireland’s natural heritage—vital for our health, well-being and wildlife!

We are delighted to announce our new hedgerow conservation campaign—the Hedge Code. It is inspired by the success of the All-Ireland Pollinator Plan which has transformed the way individuals, councils, and businesses manage their land for pollinators.


Hedge Code

Helping you plant, retain and rejuvenate your hedgerows—part of Ireland’s natural heritage—vital for our health, well-being and wildlife!

Planting Hedgerows

Plant native, pollinator-friendly trees of Irish provenance.

Plant whips every 30cm in two staggered rows with a 40cm gap.

Maintain a 1-2 metre hedge margin for wildlife.

Managing Hedgerows

Only lay or trim hedges from Sep-Feb, ideally later in the season.

Lightly trim hedges in an A-shape every 3-4 years.

Trim for road safety and visibility at dangerous bends or junctions.

Lay hedges on a 15-20 year cycle to retain wildlife habitat.

Avoid use of pesticides, herbicides, or fertilisers (including slurry).

Coppice and replant gappy hedges.

Sustainably Harvesting Hedgerows

Use wood from coppicing and laying for wildlife log piles and fuel.

Gather seeds, nuts and berries for propagating trees and making syrups, teas and preserves.

Leave plenty of nuts and berries on hedges as food for wildlife.