Hedgerows are defined as lines or groups of trees, shrubs, perennial forbs, and grasses that are planted along roadways, fences, field edges or other non-cropped areas. The word "hedge," from the Old English word "hegg," referred to an enclosure or boundary formed by closely growing bushes or by dead plant material.
Windbreaks are barriers usually consisting of trees or shrubs that are used to reduce and redirect wind, resulting in microclimate changes in the sheltered zone.
Filter strips are planted areas that use vegetation to control soil erosion, slow water runoff, and capture and prevent sediments and nutrients from entering waterways.
Hedgerows can have multiple functions- They can serve as habitat for beneficial insects, pollinators and other wildlife;
- provide erosion protection and weed control;
- serve as windbreaks;
- stabilize waterways;
- reduce non-point source water pollution and groundwater pollution;
- increase surface water infiltration;
- buffer pesticide drift, noise, odors and dust;
- act as living fences and boundary lines;
- increase biodiversity;
- and provide an aesthetic resource.
Diversity in hedgerow
species, especially when using natives, assures
a range of attributes, such as multiple kinds of
insects and wildlife attracted, positive effects to
soil and water resources, and success of individual
plants under site-specific climatic and other
environmental conditions.
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