Blackthorn / Sloe (prunus spinosa)

• Native UK shrub, ideal for wildlife-friendly gardens and hedgerows.
• Early spring white flowers provide vital nectar for bees and pollinators.
• Dense thorny growth offers secure, intruder-proof hedging and nesting sites for birds.
• Autumn sloes are a food source for birds and mammals; also used for sloe gin.
• Supports numerous insects, including butterfly and moth caterpillars.
• Hardy, tolerant of poor soils, wind, and coastal conditions.
• Suckering habit helps keep hedges dense and form thickets unless they are mown.

Planting Guide

• Best time: Bare-root plants in dormant season (November to early April); container-grown anytime.
• Site: Full sun or semi shade preferred; moist but well-drained soil (tolerates most types except waterlogged or deep shade).
• Preparation: Dig hole twice root spread; improve soil with compost if needed.
• Spacing for hedging: 30-45cm apart in single row (or staggered double for thicker hedge).
• Planting: Firm soil around roots, water well; mulch to retain moisture.
• Aftercare: Water regularly first year; prune in winter to shape (wear gloves due to thorns).