October to April:

Clear back vegetation and pit plant. 40-60cm or 60-90cm whips
If possible site 2'-3' outside the line of the hedge. This makes subsequent management of the hedge easier
Protect with tree shelter
Put in marker that protrudes from the top of the hedge to identify its position for subsequent management operations

Recommended Irish native and naturalised hedge trees and shrubs
select species from the suitable list that are common to your area

Suitable

Large
Ash - shallow rooting
Oak - deep rooting

Medium
Alder - damp sites
Willow

Small
Wild Cherry - good timber
Bird Cherry
Birch
Whitethorn
Blackthorn
Spindle - chalk soils
Crab Apple
Whitebeam
Holly
Rowan

Unsuitable

Evergreens (except holly)
Yew - poisonous to stock
Sycamore - casts heavy shade
Beech - casts heavy shade
Horse Chestnut - casts heavy shade
Lime - casts heavy shade
Aspen - tends to sucker
Elder - suppresses other species