Hedgerow & Windbreak Plants
Structural plants that create microclimates and protect gardens from wind
What Are Hedgerow & Windbreak Plants?
Hedgerows and windbreaks are living fences made of shrubs and trees. They protect gardens from harsh winds, create microclimates, provide privacy, and serve as wildlife corridors. A well-designed hedgerow reduces wind speed by up to 50% for a distance of 10-20 times its height. This protects crops, reduces evaporation, prevents soil erosion, and extends the growing season.
Benefits
- Reduces wind damage to crops and increases yields
- Creates warmer microclimates, extending growing season
- Reduces water evaporation from soil and plants
- Provides habitat for birds and beneficial insects
- Many hedgerow plants produce edible fruits or nuts
- Acts as living fence, reducing need for manufactured materials
Example Plants
Hawthorn
Crataegus monogyna
Dense thorny shrub perfect for windbreaks. Produces edible berries. Flowers attract pollinators. Provides secure nesting for birds. Very hardy.
Sea Buckthorn
Hippophae rhamnoides
Nitrogen-fixing shrub tolerant of salt and wind. Produces vitamin C-rich berries. Dense growth provides excellent windbreak. Fixes nitrogen.
Willow
Salix spp.
Fast-growing trees/shrubs for windbreaks. Coppices well for renewable wood. Flexible branches useful for basketry. Provides early pollen for bees.
Hazel
Corylus avellana
Multi-stemmed shrub producing edible nuts. Coppices for renewable poles and stakes. Early catkins feed bees. Forms dense hedge when managed.
Elderberry
Sambucus nigra
Fast-growing shrub with edible flowers and berries. Medicinal properties. Attracts beneficial insects. Provides structure and wind protection.
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Implementation Tips
Plant hedgerows perpendicular to prevailing winds
Use multiple rows with varying heights for best wind reduction
Include mix of deciduous and evergreen plants for year-round protection
Space plants closer than normal tree spacing to encourage dense growth
Coppice or pollard to maintain manageable height and density
Integrate nitrogen-fixers and wildlife plants into hedgerows
Allow 50% permeability - solid barriers create turbulence
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