Garden

Hampshire Hedges

We have all been reminded recently of our need to do our bit for the planet. In the recent Cop26 debate it was good to see that planting trees was one of the solutions put forward by scientists to save the world. Many people may think that planting a tree in the garden is not possible, and they may be right. Most trees would quickly dominate their space and would reduce the area for floral or vegetable planting and for children’s play.

Typically, many gardens have timber fences that will become, or are, structurally unsound due to rotting from lack of upkeep. What an opportunity to do your bit for the planet! Instead of planting a tree or replacing a rotting fence, why not plant an instant hedge? This will provide just as much or even more green growth to absorb those carbon emissions as a tree. So you can do your bit for the planet. Consider also the benefits a natural hedge provides like:

• Nesting opportunities for small birds • Natural corridors for small mammals • Habitat for caterpillars, ladybirds, bees and butterflies • If maintained correctly a hedge will last a lifetime.

At Hampshire hedges, we grow instant hedges in Airpots which enable them to be planted at any time of the year. The airpot system helps the hedge plant to develop a thick fibrous root structure, so that when it is planted no extra support is required and with just the right irrigation routine, in the first couple of years, success is guaranteed.

Hampshire Hedges have a range of hedges that provide both deciduous and evergreen options for most situations. These hedges are offered at 1.2 m (4 ft), 1.5 m (5ft) and 1.8 m (6 ft) high.

As an environmentally conscious company, we now grow all our hedging in (reduced peat) compost in line with government guidelines. The product we use has produced very good root systems and excellent growth extensions. In addition, prior to delivery, we remove the plastic airpots which are then re-used, reducing plastic waste. The hedge roots are then wrapped in jute for transport which can be left on the roots and planted directly into your prepared trench. New roots will soon grow through the jute membrane which biodegrades over a couple of years. The use of jute was a simple way of moving away from shrink wrap plastic.

At Hampshire Hedges we understand the connection between the health of the planet and the impact of non-disposable packaging. Every day we work to advance our business toward Zero waste systems and help our customers be better stewards for the environment.

Best winter walks in Hampshire

There’s no better feeling than coming back into the warm after a cold, crisp winter walk. Whether you’re searching for a preChristmas walk to de-stress in the lead-up to the big day or looking to burn off a few calories between Christmas and New Year, Hampshire is blessed with plenty of walking routes to give you much needed time in nature, exploring the best the season can offer.

East Meon The picturesque village of East Meon, once owned by the Bishops of Winchester, is home to many historic buildings including the Old Court House. The Ye Olde George Inn and the Izaak Walton Public House offer delicious local food and real ales, along with a roaring fire to warm you up after a lovely stroll through the beautiful Meon valley. Our walking guide suggests two circular walks, both starting at the imposing Norman church of All Saints with its magnificent spire. One walk of 4 miles should take approximately two hours and the second, a longer walk of 8 miles, which can be completed in around four hours.

Queen Elizabeth Country Park Just three miles south of Petersfield, Queen Elizabeth Country Park offers over 2,000 acres of open woodland and downland. Open every day other than Christmas Eve and Christmas Day, Queen Elizabeth Country Park is your starting off point for exploring Butser Hill, one of the highest points in the National Park. With 360 degree views, Butser Hill is one of the best places to admire the Dark Night Skies of the South Downs. The on-site Beechwood Kitchen serves up hot drinks and food using locallysourced ingredients.

Alice Holt Forest The Forestry England-managed Alice Holt Forest is a must see for lovers of trees and woodland. Come the winter, the trees have completed their transition with the forest floor turning into a patchwork of orange, ochre and gold. With five trails of differing lengths and distances, there’s plenty for families along with those looking for something a little more challenging to while away those wintry days.If looking to head to a pub to warm up after, The Jolly Farmer and The Bluebell are right on the edge of Alice Holt. Both pubs are dog-friendly and serve-up tasty, seasonal food.

Hampshire Hangers The 21-mile Hangers Way takes you through a valley of steep, tree-covered hills. Lose yourself in steep valley sides cloaked in hanger woodlands. The Hangers Way is a 21-mile long-distance trail between Alton railway station and Queen Elizabeth Country Park, where it eventually connects with the South Downs Way. The Way is divided into 8 different sections, ideal if you don’t fancy completing it all in one day. However, if you do want to do it all in one day, Petersfield makes for an ideal rest point and has numerous pubs, cafés and delis to allow you to fuel up before continuing the rest of your journey

The South Downs National Park - www..southdowns.gov.uk