FARMERS, landowners, schools and community groups are being invited to apply for a hedge trimming award. 

The Devon Hedge Award is now open for applications, for those people who carry out 'healthy hedge trimming' across Devon. The award thanks those who are working to create wildlife-rich hedges in the countryside. 

Applicants will receive a certificate as well as an award plaque. 

Devon Hedge Group, organisers of the award, say there are regimes when it comes to hedge cutting that can encourage wildlife and could cost less. These include: 

  • Incremental trimming – whereby the hedge is allowed to grow slightly bigger each time it is cut, whether annually or less frequently. If the hedge gets too big it can then be cut back harder.
  • Trimming every two, three or more years- so that the hedge produces lots of flowers and fruit, which do not get a chance to develop on annually close-cut hedges (flowers and fruit generally develop on the previous year’s growth).
  • Traditional hedge laying – cutting at the base of each stem to create a hinge that stays alive when the stem is bent over, tight on top of the bank.
  • Conservation hedge laying – whereby less of the existing hedge is cut out and a bigger laid hedge is created. 

Participants will need to fill out an online form and attach photos of their hedge. If it meets the criteria, then they will receive the plaque and certificate. To apply, click here. 

Applications close on December 31 2024.

Dr Rob Wolton, chair of the Devon Hedge Group, said: "Every Devon hedge is different in some respect, and we are keen that the way that they are cut relates to needs and benefits of each individual hedge. Choosing the correct hedge trimming option can create great benefits for wildlife and can save money too.

"Devon’s hedges are of international importance as a historical, cultural, wildlife and landscape resource. We really hope as many people as possible get involved and apply for their award. If the award scheme goes a small way to instilling a sense of pride in our hedges and all the benefits they provide, then I will be a happy man."