Image: Hedge laying, Grange Farm

A small length of hedge is in the process of being laid. Laid hedges are made by bending over the samplings of the growing bush at an angle of 45 degrees. The bent saplings are woven around stakes driven into the ground at intervals of 1-2 yards. The crest is crowned by a tightly woven layer of severed rods, known as hethers, which prevent the growing wood from springing erect. Unwanted twigs and branches are removed. To prevent it from running wild, a hedge needs this treatment every five to ten years. Because hedge-laying is a skilled, expensive and time-consuming task, many hedges have been neglected. Grange Farmhouse, Maiden Bradley with Yarnfield, England, UK.