Hawthorn Hedge

In the UK, the ideal time to plant a hawthorn hedge is during their dormant period, which generally falls between October and February. This gives the roots time to establish before the spring growth spurt.

The growth rate of a hawthorn hedge depends on several factors, including:

• Hawthorn variety: Some varieties, like Crataegus monogyna, are known for their fast growth and can put on 2-3 feet per year in ideal conditions. Other varieties, like Crataegus laevigata, grow more slowly, reaching about 1-2 feet per year.
• Planting conditions: Hawthorn hedges thrive in well-drained soil with plenty of sunlight. Optimal soil moisture, regular watering in dry periods, and proper fertilisation can also boost growth.
• Pruning: Regular pruning encourages bushier growth but can slow down overall height increase. If you prioritise quick height, you may need to adjust your pruning practices.
• Age: Young hawthorn hedges typically grow faster than mature ones. As the hedge matures, growth rate may slow down due to competition for resources within the hedge.

With all these factors in mind, you can generally expect a healthy hawthorn hedge to grow between 1-3 feet per year. However, some varieties, under ideal conditions, might even reach 4-5 feet per year in their first few years of growth.

Reach out to The Tree & Hedge Company for Hawthorn hedge supply, delivery, and installation.

No, hawthorn hedges are not poisonous to horses. In fact, the leaves and berries of hawthorn hedges are sometimes used in equine health supplements for their purported circulation-boosting properties. While horses might nibble on hawthorn leaves or berries on occasion, these parts are not considered toxic to them.

However, it’s important to remember that no plant is completely safe if ingested in large quantities, so it’s still wise to:

• Consider horse grazing habits: Monitor your horse’s grazing habits and ensure they don’t overindulge in the hawthorn hedge, particularly the berries.
• Be aware of potential allergens: While uncommon, some horses may experience allergic reactions to certain plants, including hawthorn. If you notice any unusual symptoms in your horse after they have been eating hawthorn, consult your veterinarian.
• Consider potential risks of thorns: While the thorns on hawthorn branches are unlikely to cause serious injuries, they can scratch and irritate your horse’s skin. If you’re concerned about this, you can choose a hawthorn variety with fewer thorns or even opt for an alternative horse-friendly hedge altogether.

Overall, you can safely plant a hawthorn hedge around your horse paddock or pasture without worrying about poisoning. However, as with any other plant, it’s always good practice to exercise caution and supervise your horse’s grazing behaviour.