Alexandre aims for large-scale projects to promote biodiversity around his market gardening activity. In this project, supported by Trafic, we aimed for 470 meters of hedges in double-row and 205 meters in single row, i.e., approx. 1753 plants to be planted. All the elements are there to recreate shelter, cover, and a wildlife corridor, on the Lasne side. You strengthen biodiversity and contribute to soil carbon sequestration. Finally, the hedge ensures the preservation of soil and water quality. In total, the plantings represent 1,248m (single – double and triple row) across the entire plot).
Ferme des Marnières
Alexandre recently launched his agroecological project on a 9.8 ha plot in Lasne. Delicious vegetables are currently cultivated there. Well beyond what the organic label requires, various virtuous practices are implemented: living soil market gardening (permanent soil cover, massive organic matter input, no-tillage, etc.), agroforestry (association of orchards and market garden crops), and the establishment of hundreds of meters of hedges and flower strips (erosion control and biodiversity stimulation).
The first meeting with Alexandre took place in August 2023. We took the time to listen to his concerns, to determine the desired linear features and functions of the hedge:
- strengthen the ecological network on his farm with perimeter hedges,
- promote a suite of beneficials active against pests,
- combat the problem of soil erosion
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1145 meters of hedges at Ferme des MarnièresLearn more
Hedges: an ecological and nourishing corridor
Meeting numerous eligibility criteria for its Takecare sustainability program, the company Trafic chose to co-finance the approximately 2060 meters of living hedges.
On February 12, 2024, the linear plantings were carried out after a period of intensive rain. The plants were marked with Sema blue marking paint to protect them from rabbits.
The hedges consist of a mix of hawthorns, medlars, hazelnut trees, dogwoods*… A mix of more than 15 different species of native trees and shrubs are now planted.
Hedge
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Planting / installation period2023
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Number of trees1 753
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Area1 820 m²
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Meters of hedge675 m
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Carbon70.90 T of carbon sequestered over 20 years
List of selected species
| Field Maple | |
|---|---|
| Common Privet | |
| Black Alder | |
| Silver Birch | |
| Common Hornbeam | |
| Cornelian Cherry | |
| Bloodtwig dogwood | |
| Hazelnut Tree (Common Hazel) | |
| Single-style Hawthorn | |
| Alder Buckthorn | |
| Crabapple | |
| Common Medlar | |
| Bird Cherry | |
| Basket willows | |
| Purple willows |
When we addressed the chapter “Biodiversity” as part of our Take Care program, the team’s desire to take concrete local action quickly became apparent.
We then found in PlantC an attentive and committed partner, capable of offering us a solution that is both professional and has a strong impact on biodiversity.
Thanks to the network of farmers and market gardeners spread throughout Belgium, we will be able to develop a project near each of our stores by 2030.
Our decision to collaborate with Plant C is also based on the rigorous approach to selecting its partners: plantations are chosen according to the local biotope, implemented with care, and are subject to regular monitoring.
We are delighted with this collaboration, enriched throughout the year by clear information and constant visibility on current and upcoming projects.
