Hedge Laying Revival in England: Farmers Tap Ancient Craft to Fight Climate Change and Floods

Farmers across England are rediscovering the centuries-old practice of hedge laying, a traditional land management technique that is now driving a surge in grant applications under the government’s £225 million environmental improvement scheme. This revival, particularly prominent in rural counties like Devon, Somerset, and Yorkshire, sees farmers applying for capital grants to restore mature hedges using methods perfected during the 18th and 19th centuries. The craft involves partially cutting and bending young stems to encourage dense regrowth, creating living barriers that enhance biodiversity and strengthen soil stability. The renewed interest stems from hedge laying’s proven benefits: it captures carbon dioxide at scale, reduces surface runoff during heavy rains, and provides vital habitat for birds, insects, and small mammals. With climate change intensifying flood risks and pushing agricultural sustainability to the forefront, this low-tech solution has emerged as a high-impact tool. In fact, hedge laying ranked among the top four most sought-after grant categories—demonstrating how historical knowledge can deliver modern ecological results. As demand grows, experts stress that the technique isn’t just about nostalgia—it’s a scalable, cost-effective strategy for rural resilience. With increasing support from organizations like the Woodland Trust and local conservation groups, the movement signals a shift toward integrating ancestral wisdom with contemporary environmental goals. The future of sustainable farming may well lie in these time-tested hedges, standing tall against climate challenges.