Ille-et-Vilaine department of France, April 2025
Thanks to your support, the hedgerow restoration project on Jean-Philippe and Loïc’s farm in Ille-et-Vilaine (Brittany, France) has made great strides and is already bearing fruit!
Since 2020, 269 trees from 13 different species have been planted in the grazing pastures used by the cow herd. In addition, the farmers have expanded the project by planting 100 sweet chestnut trees along the edge of a field. These trees are in an area that cannot be worked by tractor, thus adding value to a previously unused space. In time, this small woodland will produce fruit and timber (stakes) for the farm, while also providing shade for the cows grazing nearby.
🌱 Promising growth
The trees are growing superbly! Most are now over 1.5 metres tall and many are already more than two metres. Even the challenging soil conditions have not held them back. The grassy strips beneath the trees are well maintained, supporting tree health and root development.
🔍 Technical monitoring in the field
A recent follow-up visit confirmed the trees are in good health. Just one minor concern was identified: four service trees showed signs of canker, a potential disease to keep an eye on. But overall, the results are hugely encouraging.
🦌 A few challenges
The main difficulty encountered comes from deer, which have caused significant damage – particularly to the oak trees. Of the 381 trees planted, 34 have died, including 22 oaks. That’s a 7% overall loss, but 22% for the oaks alone. The farmers reacted fast by replacing them with more resilient species.
🌿 What’s next?
Four seasons after planting, the project’s goals are well on track:
- the cows are already enjoying the shade
- the trees are improving biodiversity and soil quality
- the protective measures have successfully prevented damage from the herd
💚 Thank you!
This project would not have been possible without your support. Thanks to you, this farm is looking towards a more sustainable, nature-friendly future. The trees are growing, the landscape is evolving, and you and your impact is taking root here and now.
