Traditionally after about 3 years of growth, hawthorn hedges are ‘layered’ to sustantially increase their screen density. This makes the hedge into a more effective barrier,  on farms hawthorn hedges alone are potentially stock proof.   

To layer a hedge the branches are pulled across by 45° to the ground.   As new branches grow,  they will go straight upwards and a thicket of new branches is formed.

Very labour intensive.

A much easier method is to plant the hawthorn at an angle of 45° to the ground, pointing the plant tip to between the West and South. As new shoots develop along the stem, they will grow vertically upwards and achieve the same result. Naturally! Job done!