Rebecca. Creating hedgerows with native plants is a wonderful way to support local biodiversity in Ohio. A Hedgerow can encompass a very wide range of plant types depending on how hedgerow is defined. Hedgerows can consist of everything from tall mature trees to small shrubs. But no matter how it’s defined a hedgerow of native plants is a benefit to the environment and a great way to support local biodiversity.

  I don’t know the size of hedgerow you are considering or its location: sunny or shaded, wet or dry. But, here are some suggestions of different size native plants for a hedgerow.

  For trees Eastern Red Cedars and Hawthorns make good taller components of a hedgerow. Buttonbush, Spicebush and Dogwood species are shrubs that provide cover and food for wildlife. Coneflowers and Black-eye Susan’s provide nice flowers and benefit pollinators.

  These are just some of the native plants that can be used in hedgerows. Hedgerows that have diverse layers of plants support a wider range of wildlife and provide more visual interest. The links below are to university factsheets with more selections of native plants and information on hedgerows.

  Native pants are of course adapted to our environment and have fewer disease and pest issues than non native plants. But to be their best, native plants will still have specific needs for sun light, shade and water that need to be met. So before buying a plant make sure it’s needs match the site where your you intend to plant it.

Thank you for using Ask A Master Gardener.

Happy Guarding!

Ohioline

PSU

Oregon State Hedgerows