Initiating Research into Adapting Rural Hedging Techniques, Hedge Types, and Hedgerow Networks as Novel Urban Green Systems

Lisa Höpfl, Defne Sunguroğlu Hensel, Michael Hensel and Ferdinand Ludwig
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Lisa Höpfl: Faculty of Architecture, Technical University of Munich, Arcisstraße 21, 80333 München, Germany
Defne Sunguroğlu Hensel: Faculty of Architecture, Technical University of Munich, Arcisstraße 21, 80333 München, Germany
Michael Hensel: Department of Digital Architecture and Planning, Vienna University of Technology, 1040 Vienna, Austria
Ferdinand Ludwig: Faculty of Architecture, Technical University of Munich, Arcisstraße 21, 80333 München, Germany

Land, 2021, vol. 10, issue 5, 1-24

Abstract: This article seeks to initiate research into traditional rural hedging techniques, hedge types, and hedgerow networks for the purpose of their potential adaptation as urban green systems (UGS). The research involves three scales: (1) the plant scale and related manipulation techniques; (2) hedgerows and their context-specific types, ecosystem function, and ecosystem services; and (3) hedgerow networks as continuous green systems that characterize and support specific landscapes. This research required an interdisciplinary approach. The analysis was conducted by applying different modes of research including: (a) an extensive literature review, (b) analysis and systematization of hedge types and manipulation methods, (c) field experiments, (d) design experiments, and (e) examination of real-life projects that use hedges or hedging techniques as distinct design features. The initial research indicates that traditional hedges can be adapted to vitally contribute to UGS by providing a broad range of urban ecosystem services. Furthermore, the research includes initial proposals on future applications of adapted rural hedge types and techniques. On the larger scale, anticipated difficulties regarding implementation, such as land allocation in cities and resource-intensive planting, management, and maintenance, are discussed and further research questions are outlined.

Keywords: hedges; hedging techniques; hedgerows; hedgerow networks; urban hedges; urban green systems; ecosystem functions and services; biodiversity; design research (search for similar items in EconPapers)
JEL-codes: Q15 Q2 Q24 Q28 Q5 R14 R52 (search for similar items in EconPapers)
Date: 2021
References: View references in EconPapers View complete reference list from CitEc
Citations: View citations in EconPapers (1)

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