Woodland and hedgerow creation, England and Wales
Woodland and hedgerow is being restored to benefit wildlife
Protect Earth plants and restores across England and Wales. An example of their work is this abandoned farmhouse and smallholding is being restored to benefit wildlife, food production, and the local economy. A woodland block is being planted at one end, a shelterbelt to block the wind is being planted along the road, and hedging filling the remaining borders. The hedgerow is 125 metres in total, with 600 hedging plants, with the following native species Hawthorn, Blackthorn, Guelder Rose, Hazel, and Alder Buckthorn.
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Volunteers planting more saplings. Regular care, including tending to and restocking young trees constitutes a key part of the long-term success of green spaces.
Expansion of woodland at the South Molton site. This planting has vast benefits for soil, most notably in diversification of the soil microbiome. Leaf litter also adds more organic decomposition and locks more carbon into the soil while, roots prevent erosion.
The latest volunteer weekend saw the planting of more hedgerow. Not only is this work key for wildlife but hedgerows also provide shelter for livestock and crops from extreme weather, and help reduce flooding and soil erosion.
Traditionally, horse paddocks are synonymous with short, overgrazed land that lacks vitality for wildlife. Crucial tree planting here in South Molton is harmonising equine care with environmental stewardship, transforming the acreage into a haven for both horses and biodiversity.
The project relies on volunteer work to help efficiently restore hedgerow back to being a functioning stock-proof wildlife corridor.
Planting of 102 saplings at Greater Brimley Farm was completed in January 2026. This constitutes part of a larger 500 tree planting project.
All trees planted have been protected from deer with individual guards and running streams throughout the planting site ensures the survival of saplings over summer.
Locally respected rewilding landowners have been involved in tree planting alongside volunteers.
Around 200m of hedgerow was planted between the 6th and 7th March 2026. Much of the work involved 'gapping up' an old hedgerow, requiring the clearing of bramble and branches to create space for new saplings.
20 saplings planted last year at South Molton, not only all surviving but mostly coming out of the tubes already.
A meter of hedgerow at South Molton with hawthorn coming along nicely in August, starting to branch ready for sideways growth next growing season.
A large view of another section of hedgerow at South Molton. There are hundreds of meters of wildlife corridors all fenced off to protect from grazing by horses.
Planting taking place at South Molton, Devon, 1600 saplings planted creating hedgerow of 400 metres with 6 different species. Photo credit: Andy Herd
Planting at Looedown Farm. 450 saplings planted creating hedgerow of 115 metres long.
Protect Earth is gearing up for an exciting 2024/25 planting season! We're forecasting 44,540 saplings across the UK, restoring 57.44 acres into vibrant natural habitats.
At High Wood, Liskeard, the local Scout group recently got hands-on with nature, helping us build leaky dams during our monthly work parties. These dams slow water flow, mimicking how fallen trees naturally reduce flood risk. It was a fantastic learning experience for the Scouts, who practised skills like using an axe and saw while contributing to environmental conservation. Their efforts made a real impact, and they saw the results firsthand!
Woodlands are potent allies in the UK's fight for biodiversity, climate resilience, and community well-being. However, sustaining these natural spaces requires proactive care. Our latest article, "What is Woodland Management and Why It Matters," dives into how Protect Earth cultivates and preserves these invaluable ecosystems. Discover how simple yet thoughtful practices keep woodlands thriving for generations. https://www.protect.earth/blog/what-is-woodland-management-and-why-it-matters
A few weeks back, we had an absolute blinder of a weekend! 1,371 trees were planted in two days - an immense achievement. Thanks to the landowners, the 20 volunteers who came out to make a planting session an event, and the Protect Earth team!
Tree planting season begins! Today we’re trying something a little different, planting “field trees”, with flexible and spiky guards to keep livestock off them. These 15 trees will grow big and tall, providing shade, shelter, and sustenance for the cows and sheep that graze here.
Woodland and hedgerow creation, England and Wales joined Pinwheel!