Countryside Stewardship

Once your BN11 or BN7 application has been approved and your plants have arrived, it’s time to get them in the ground. Planting a Countryside Stewardship hedge is straightforward when you follow the correct specification — and getting it right ensures your claim is accepted without issues. This guide walks you through everything you need to know, from spacing to species mix, so you can plant a healthy, compliant hedge that thrives for years to come. 1. Know the Requirements (

If you’re planning to plant a new hedge (BN11) or fill gaps in an existing hedge (BN7), the good news is that the Countryside Stewardship application is much simpler than it looks. You don’t need to wade through pages of DEFRA guidance — this step-by-step guide takes you through the exact process farmers need to follow for the 2026 Capital Grants round. 1. Confirm Your Hedge Plan Before you start your application, make sure you’ve already: ✔ Checked you’re eligible ✔ Decided

Planting or restoring a hedge under Countryside Stewardship can bring in valuable support through BN11 (new hedge planting)  and BN7 (gapping-up) . But before you apply, it’s important to make sure you meet the scheme’s eligibility rules. This guide breaks down everything you need to know — in plain English — so you can quickly confirm whether your hedge project qualifies for funding in 2026. What BN11 and BN7 Actually Cover BN11 — Planting New Hedges This option funds the pl

Find out how UK farmers and landowners can access grants to plant hedgerows, trees, and woodlands. This 2026 guide explains key schemes, eligibility, and how to apply in clear, simple terms.

Why native diversity matters — and how to build a hedge mix that fits BN7 and BN11 Countryside Stewardship rules. When it comes to Countryside Stewardship hedging (BN7 for gapping-up and BN11 for new hedges), inspectors consistently favour mixes that show thought, diversity, and good use of native species . A well-designed planting scheme does more than tick boxes: it strengthens wildlife corridors, supports pollinators, improves soil and shelter, and creates a hedge that wil

Discover how the BN11: Planting New Hedges scheme helps UK farmers fund new hedgerows while supporting wildlife and the environment. Learn how to apply, what to plant, and get practical hedge planting tips.

If the Countryside Stewardship process feels complex, this guide breaks it down into simple steps. Understand which route applies to you, key 2026 deadlines, what to prepare, and how to plan hedge and tree planting with confidence. If you want alternative tones (more promotional, more practical, more SEO-heavy), I can generate more versions.