Introduction to Tree Health in Hedgerows and Small Woodlands

Updated on the 18th of January 2025

Maintaining tree health is fundamental to preserving the ecological integrity of hedgerows and small woodlands across England. Trees in these settings are not only crucial for biodiversity but also support soil stability, carbon sequestration, and contribute to the aesthetic and structural value of rural landscapes. Whether you’re a farmer, landowner, or estate manager, understanding the health of your trees is the first step to ensuring they thrive for generations.

Why tree health matters for hedgerows and small woodlands

Hedgerows and small woodlands serve as vital wildlife corridors, linking fragmented habitats and providing shelter and food for countless species. However, trees in these areas are increasingly threatened by various pests, diseases, and environmental stressors. Left unchecked, these threats can lead to the decline or loss of trees, with knock-on effects for the broader landscape and agricultural productivity.

Healthy trees contribute significantly to:

• Biodiversity and ecosystem stability: They offer nesting sites for birds, habitats for small mammals, and a food source for insects and pollinators.
• Erosion control and soil health: Roots anchor the soil, preventing erosion and maintaining the soil’s nutrient cycle.
• Agricultural and environmental benefits: Trees in hedgerows act as windbreaks, reduce water runoff, and provide shade for livestock.

Key threats to tree health in England’s hedgerows and small woodlands

The health of trees in these landscapes is challenged by various factors, including:

Pests and diseases

• Ash dieback (Hymenoscyphus fraxineus): Causes leaf loss, branch dieback, and eventual death of ash trees.
• Oak processionary moth (OPM): Defoliates oak trees and poses health risks due to the toxic hairs of its caterpillars.
• Phytophthora ramorum: Affects larch and sweet chestnut trees, leading to extensive dieback and mortality.
• Ips typographus (eight-toothed spruce bark beetle): Weakens spruce trees, making them more susceptible to diseases.

Environmental stressors

• Climate extremes: Prolonged droughts, heavy rainfall, and temperature fluctuations stress trees and increase vulnerability to pests and diseases.
• Poor soil health: Nutrient deficiencies and inappropriate site selection contribute to declining tree health.

Human activities

• Management practices: Over-pruning or improper herbicide use can harm trees.
• Accidental introductions: Movement of infected plant material spreads pests and pathogens.

Assessing tree health in hedgerows and small woodlands

Visual inspections

• Look for signs of distress such as discoloured or wilting leaves, dieback in branches, fungi growth on bark, and insect holes.

Use of professional surveys

• Engage professional surveyors for complex issues like pest infestations or diseases such as ash dieback. The Tree Health Pilot Scheme offers grants for surveys, especially for trees under Statutory Plant Health Notices (SPHN).

Biosecurity practices

• Follow biosecurity protocols outlined in the Tree Health Pilot Scheme, including cleaning tools between sites and managing visitor access to reduce the spread of pests and diseases.

How to support tree health in hedgerows and small woodlands

Promote tree diversity

Planting a variety of native species enhances resilience against pests and diseases. It also supports a broader range of wildlife.

Implement regular maintenance

• Prune trees regularly, remove deadwood, and apply mulch to improve soil health and reduce competition for nutrients.
• For hedgerows, periodic laying or coppicing rejuvenates growth and improves structural integrity.

Use the right grants and funding options

The following grants can support tree health management:

• Tree Health Pilot Scheme (THP): Provides financial support for managing trees affected by key pests and diseases, covering felling, restocking, and biosecurity measures.
• Countryside Stewardship woodland tree health grants: Funds activities like rhododendron clearance, chemical treatment, and infrastructure improvements.
• Sustainable Farming Incentive (SFI): Includes options for hedgerow monitoring and biosecurity measures to maintain tree health.

Update: Consider applying for the Woodland Management Plan (WMP) grant to develop a 10-year UK Forestry Standard-compliant plan. This grant supports long-term sustainable tree health management and can be applied for year-round, subject to budget availability.

Grants available for tree health management in England

Tree Health Pilot Scheme (THP)

Supports managing trees affected by pests and diseases such as ash dieback and Phytophthora ramorum. Funding covers:

• Felling and disposal of infected trees.
• Restocking with disease-resistant species.
• Implementing biosecurity measures.

Countryside Stewardship woodland tree health grants

Offers funding for:

• Removing invasive species like rhododendron.
• Treating infected trees with approved chemicals.
• Improving infrastructure to support tree health.

Sustainable Farming Incentive (SFI)

Provides payments for:

• Assessing and recording hedgerow and tree health.
• Implementing biosecurity measures to prevent pest spread.

Update: Starting in 2025, applicants for relevant grants can participate in a phased pre-application process. This ensures all preparatory documents, such as maps and assessments, are in place before full application submission, improving approval rates.

Partnering with AskGrant

Managing tree health and navigating grant applications doesn’t have to be daunting. With AskGrant, you’ll receive expert guidance at every step.

• Plan with GrantBudgeter: Use our GrantBudgeter tool to simplify cost planning and strengthen your applications.
• Tailored support: Let us help you identify the best grants and craft a compelling application.

Ready to preserve and enhance your hedgerows and small woodlands? Partner with AskGrant today and take proactive steps toward healthier trees and thriving landscapes.

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