How to Plant a Countryside Stewardship Hedge (BN11 & BN7 Planting Guide)

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 (BN11 & BN7 Rules)

Countryside Stewardship hedges must be planted according to the official specification:

✔ Double-staggered row

Two rows, offset, forming a strong structure.

✔ 5–7 plants per metre

This ensures density and good long-term shape.

✔ Native species only

Required for both BN11 (new hedges) and BN7 (gapping-up).

✔ Maximum 70% hawthorn

And at least four other native species for BN11.

✔ Plant between November and March

This is the accepted bare-root planting season.

Bowhayes Trees hedge packs are designed to meet these requirements automatically.

---

2. Prepare the Ground

Good preparation makes a big difference to your young hedge.

✔ Mark out your hedge line

Use string, canes, or spray paint to set your line accurately.

✔ Remove weeds and grass

Clear a strip about 40–60cm wide to reduce competition.

✔ Improve poorly drained ground

If drainage is slow, create a shallow trench to lift the root zone slightly.

✔ Keep livestock off the line

Young hedges need protection from sheep, cattle, deer, and rabbits.

---

3. Set Out Your Plants

Spacing

• Two staggered rows, 30–40cm apart

• 5–7 plants per metre (usually 6 per metre)

• Plants offset rather than in straight opposing lines

Species mix

For BN11:

• Max 70% hawthorn

• Minimum 4 other species (e.g., blackthorn, hazel, field maple, spindle, dog rose)For BN7:

• Match or improve the existing hedge species

Bowhayes’ CS-compliant mixes make this simple.

---

4. Planting Your Hedge

Bare-root plants are quick and easy to plant.

✔ Create a slit or T-shaped notch with a spade

Open the soil enough for the roots to fit comfortably.

✔ Position the plant at the correct depth

The soil should cover all the roots up to the nursery soil line.

✔ Firm the soil around the roots

Press with your boot to remove air pockets and stabilise the plant.

✔ Water well (especially in dry spells)

Even winter-planted hedges benefit from watering during dry periods.

---

5. Add Guards and Protection

Young hedges are highly vulnerable.

Recommended protection:

• Spiral guards for hedging whips

• Stakes or bamboo canes for stability

• Tree shelters for hedgerow trees

• Rabbit netting if rabbits are an issue

• Stock fencing if livestock graze nearby

Protection dramatically increases success rates and is often essential for BN11 claims.

---

6. Mulch and Weed Control

To help your hedge establish:

✔ Apply a light mulch (woodchip or composted bark)

✔ Avoid piling mulch against stems

✔ Weed regularly during the first 2–3 years

✔ Maintain at least a 40–60cm weed-free strip

This reduces competition and speeds up establishment.

---

7. Evidence for Your Countryside Stewardship Claim

As you plant, take the following evidence — you’ll need it to claim payment:

✔ Photos of the hedge after planting

Show clear sections, guards, and the double row.

✔ Photos of the hedge line from multiple angles

Include start and end points.

✔ A copy of your Bowhayes Trees invoice

Keep it safe until submitting your claim.

✔ Optional: date-stamped photos or planting logs

Useful if RPA requests extra information.

Keeping evidence throughout planting avoids delays during reimbursement.

---

8. First-Year Aftercare (Essential for Inspections)

In the first 12 months:

✔ Replace failed plants

✔ Keep the line weed-free

✔ Maintain guards and fences

✔ Water during dry periods

✔ Avoid trimming until the hedge is well established

✔ Keep livestock away from the hedge

A well-maintained first year sets the hedge up for decades of growth.

---

⭐ Quick Planting Checklist (Print or Save)

• Double-staggered row

• 5–7 plants per metre

• Native species only

• Plant Nov–March

• Max 70% hawthorn

• Protect from livestock & rabbits

• Mulch and weed control

• Photo evidence taken

• Keep your invoice for claims

---

🌱 Final Thoughts

Planting a Countryside Stewardship hedge under BN11 or BN7 is a rewarding project that enhances your farm’s landscape, biodiversity and shelter. With the right planting method and good aftercare, your hedge will establish quickly and provide long-term value — and meet RPA inspection standards with ease.

Bowhayes Trees can support your planting with:

• CS-compliant hedge packs

• Hedgerow trees

• Stakes, guards, and planting accessories

• Friendly, practical advice throughout the process

If you're now ready to order your plants, explore our native hedge packs or get in touch for tailored recommendations.