What are tredges and why do they matter?
Native tredges—a term describing vegetation that sits between a tree and a hedge in height and density—offer a practical way to enhance England’s wooded landscape. These mid-canopy or mid-shrub layers naturally occur in ancient woodlands and hedgerows, and experts say expanding them in modern gardens and farms could significantly bolster tree cover and biodiversity across the country.
Unlike formal hedges that are clipped into uniform lines, tredges provide a wilder, more layered structure. They offer shelter for birds, pollinators, and small mammals, while also connecting isolated pockets of woodland and hedgerows into a greener network. By mimicking the rhythms of ancient woodlands, tredges can help restore ecosystems that have diminished over decades of intensification and urban expansion.
Why England needs more tredges
England’s tree cover has faced pressure from development, climate change, and agricultural practices. Expanding native tredges can contribute to a resilient landscape by:
- Providing habitat corridors that wildlife can use to move between woodlands and hedgerows.
- Offering shelter from wind and extreme temperatures for young trees and shrubs.
- Supporting pollinators with flowering understories and nectar sources.
- Increasing soil health and moisture retention through a denser root network.
The Royal Horticultural Society (RHS) is encouraging gardeners to consider tredges as a practical, low-cost measure to bolster tree cover without requiring large-scale land use changes.
How to create and maintain tredges
Getting started with tredges involves selecting native species that naturally fit between a tree and a hedge in height. Choose a mix of shrubs and small trees that tolerate local conditions, including soil type, moisture, and sunlight. Suitable native options include hawthorn, blackthorn, hazel, rowan, and holly, along with understory species such as elder, dogwood, and spindle.
Steps to establish tredges:
- Assess the site: Note prevailing winds, sunlight patterns, and existing vegetation.
- Plant in layered groups: Interplant small trees and shrubs to form a natural, varied canopy.
- Provide support: Some young trees may need staking or shelter from grazing animals.
- Mulch and water: Use native mulch to retain moisture and reduce weed competition, especially in the first growing seasons.
- Manage growth: Prune lightly to maintain a natural shape while encouraging vertical growth and understory development.
Routine maintenance is minimal once tredges are established. The goal is to maintain a dynamic, natural appearance rather than a perfectly manicured hedge. Regular checks for pests and diseases, and mindful pruning to avoid over-shearing, will help tredges thrive.
Community and garden-scale impact
On a neighborhood or garden scale, trede planting can be integrated into existing hedgerows or woodland margins. Local councils and gardening groups can provide guidance on native species and planting schemes that align with regional biodiversity goals. By connecting gardens, allotments, and public green spaces through tredges, communities can contribute to England’s wider conservation targets while enjoying filters of shade, beauty, and wildlife activity in their outdoor spaces.
A call to action for gardeners
The RHS’s guidance aligns with a growing movement toward more nature-inclusive gardening. Planting tredges is accessible to both seasoned horticulturists and beginner gardeners who want to do their part for wildlife and climate resilience. Start with a small, native group of shrubs and trees, observe how they interact with your existing landscape, and gradually expand. As these middle layers mature, they will create a living tapestry that strengthens England’s tree cover and supports a richer urban-to-rural ecological network.
Tracking progress and celebrating success
Developing tredges at scale will take time, but progress can be tracked through wildlife sightings, pollinator activity, and, in community projects, biodiversity surveys. Local garden clubs and schools can participate in citizen science programs, documenting changes and sharing best practices. Each tredge planted becomes a small but meaningful contribution toward a greener, more resilient England.
