All about our Devon hedgerows
The old hedgerows of South Devon stand as living testaments to the region's agricultural history and the traditional methods employed by farmers to delineate boundaries, provide shelter, and manage livestock.
These hedgerows, often dating back centuries, are a mosaic of diverse plant species and play a crucial role in maintaining biodiversity and the rural landscape. Understanding how these hedgerows were made involves exploring the historical and cultural practices that shaped the South Devon countryside.
Manual Construction:
Stone Walls and Earth Banks: In some areas of South Devon, particularly where stone was abundant, farmers built dry stone walls to create boundaries. These walls were often complemented by earth banks to increase height and stability. These structures served as effective barriers for containing livestock.
Wattle Fencing: Another method involved weaving flexible branches or twigs into a lattice pattern to create wattle fences. These fences were then often filled with soil or stones to provide additional support.
Planting Techniques:
Native Hedgerow Plants: South Devon hedgerows typically consist of a variety of native plant species, such as hawthorn, blackthorn, hazel, ash, and oak. These plants were selected for their hardiness, adaptability, and usefulness in providing shelter and food for both livestock and wildlife.
Laying and Plashing: A distinctive technique used in hedgerow management is "laying" or "plashing." This involves partially cutting through the stems of young trees or shrubs and bending them horizontally to create a dense, stock-proof barrier. This method promotes new growth and ensures a sturdy, living fence.
Functional Aspects:
Livestock Enclosure: One primary purpose of hedgerows in South Devon was to act as natural barriers to contain livestock. The dense growth of shrubs and trees prevented animals from straying into neighboring fields.
Windbreaks and Shelter: Hedgerows also served as windbreaks, protecting crops and livestock from strong prevailing winds. Additionally, they provided shade and shelter for animals during inclement weather.
Boundary Markers: Hedgerows were vital for defining property boundaries and separating agricultural plots. Their establishment often followed ancient field patterns and territorial divisions.
Cultural Practices:
Community Involvement: The creation and maintenance of hedgerows were often community endeavors. Neighboring farmers collaborated to plant, lay, and manage hedgerows, fostering a sense of shared responsibility and a communal connection to the landscape.
Seasonal Work: Traditional hedgerow management followed seasonal patterns. Laying and cutting activities were often conducted during the winter months when vegetation was dormant, ensuring minimal disruption to wildlife.
The old hedgerows of South Devon thus represent a harmonious blend of natural plant growth and human intervention. Shaped by the needs of agriculture, these living barriers continue to enrich the landscape and provide valuable habitats for a diverse range of flora and fauna. Preserving and understanding the methods behind their creation is essential for maintaining the cultural and ecological legacy of South Devon's rural heritage.