Shrub Hedge and Biodiversity at Ferme des Marnières (Lasne)

Alexandre aims for large-scale projects in favor of biodiversity around his market gardening activity. In this project, we aimed for 573 meters of hedges, or approx. 1,957 plants to be planted. All the elements are there to recreate shelter, cover and a wildlife corridor, in the Lasne area. You strengthen biodiversity and contribute to soil carbon sequestration. Finally, the hedge ensures the preservation of soil and water quality.

Alexandre recently started his agroecological project on a 9.8 ha plot in Lasne. Delicious vegetables are currently cultivated there. Well beyond what the BIO label requires, various virtuous practices are implemented: living soil market gardening (permanent soil cover, massive organic matter input, no-tillage,…), agroforestry (association of orchard and market garden crops), and the establishment of hundreds of meters of hedges and flower strips (erosion control and biodiversity stimulation). In total, the plantings represent 1,248m (single – double and triple rows) across the entire plot).

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

Before

After

Hedges: an ecological and nourishing corridor

On February 12, 2024, the planting of the linear features took place after a period of intensive rain. The plants were marked with blue Sema marking paint to protect them from rabbits’ teeth.

The hedges are composed of a mixture of hawthorns, medlars, hazelnut trees, dogwoods, willows, etc. A mixture of more than 15 different species of native trees and shrubs are now planted.

Visit with Our Partner Companies

On May 17, 2024, the companies that made this project possible were present. A look back in pictures:

Since 2021, VO Group has partnered with PlantC. We cannot speak highly enough of this company: their purpose, the professionalism of their team, and their genuine interest in the living world are all truly positive.

VO-Group