Filling gaps in a ditch

FLC

Hi, What would be recommended as a hardy gap filling plant to sow in a weakened ditch? The areas are in partial shade and some spots are under mature trees and so are well shaded in the growing season.

Ground is well drained. And soil is decent.

Was thinking holly? Tried whitethorn a few years ago but probably needed more watering due to being under a large sycamore and so never thrived.

standardg60

Holly is ideal, also try ash ,birch and blackthorn. Best to source bare root whips and plant asap so they can establish over the winter.

macraignil

FLC wrote: »

Hi, What would be recommended as a hardy gap filling plant to sow in a weakened ditch? The areas are in partial shade and some spots are under mature trees and so are well shaded in the growing season.

Ground is well drained. And soil is decent.

Was thinking holly? Tried whitethorn a few years ago but probably needed more watering due to being under a large sycamore and so never thrived.

I have also found it difficult to get new plants to thrive when shaded from light and competing with the established roots of an existing hedge. One plant that has done well for me when planted in this type of situation is mahonia. Another would be aronia and berberis and holly are also good options.

There is also a process called laying a hedge(wikipedia page) where existing hedge plants are partly cut down so the stem is still half connected to the roots and the stem is tied down at a diagonal angle to close the gap in the hedge. The existing hedge plant roots and the diagonal stem then re-sprout shoots and get tangled into what becomes a more solid barrier.

standardg60

Laying is a great suggestion and is an art in itself, though it is little known or practised here.
Also should have said that it's a perfect time of year for looking under parent trees in the area for newly sprouted seedlings which can be transplanted.

FLC

standardg60 wrote: »

Laying is a great suggestion and is an art in itself, though it is little known or practised here.
Also should have said that it's a perfect time of year for looking under parent trees in the area for newly sprouted seedlings which can be transplanted.

Not enough growing near it to lay to be honest. Have done some basic laying in the past with my father, fencing gaps where cattle got out. Cut branch 2/3 or so through with billhook or with bowsaw on heavier stuff and lay over till top growth hits the ground. Or better still interweave it with a few vertical branch’s that it will meet as you hinge it down to the ground. Those were the days! Each gap a new challenge!