Clearing with coppiced hazel

“Sweet chestnut and oak woodland This hazel (Corylus avellana) has been coppiced, leaving just three stems or ‘poles’ to continue growing. These can be bent over and pinned to the ground, where they will take root and form the next generation of hazel trees. The ‘layering’ technique positions new saplings 5ft from the parent tree, helping to suppress competition from brambles (Rubus fruticosus).

photo: © Graham Turnbull