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I am planning to fence off my veggie beds to keep the chooks from wrecking them this year. I have two sections which will be fenced with very different conditions. I am trying to stick to buying only plants which are either food producing or native/good for wildlife. I want to plant something to aid the 'fencing' a little in keeping chooks out as it will be built with various scrounged up bits of wood,mesh, wire etc rather than fancy pre-treated stuff. Will buy posts, but loathe to dig and concrete, just whack 'em in !

I have several apple trees, a plum and pear around the garden and gooseberry, raspberry, currants and a few 'variations' and a few rhubarb, but could take more of any !

Soil is generally a little acid, it is pretty cold and wet in Lancashire too.

First area is shaded, it gets lots of light, but only direct sunlight in evening, with a neighbours' big tree above and hedge to one side. I think the area used to be a compost/dump for previous people. It is about 2mx1m, or could go a bit bigger ! Thinking of a fruit bush or two and more rhubarb, maybe sweet pea, nasturtium on fence while bushes establish, more forest garden style.

Second fence is along [existing] lawn, unsheltered, and about 3-4m long. Toying with the idea of espalier apple, but cost and hassle [ok, maintenance] for crop level, are a little off putting, but like the idea of something a little unusual and attractive.

Would love to have any ideas or suggestions, however wild !

Thanks

Sarah

It's nice to find someone who thinks 'native first when it comes to their garden.There are a couple of websites that will guide you to the precise native stuff for your postcode,but if you want it to be stock proof your looking at hawthorn,blackthorn,and holly,with a bit of viburnum chucked in.All these will do shade or light,and planted now bareroot are very cheap.
Fuitwise,if you want apples I would prefer a few cordoned apples to an espalier less work more fruit,and again cheap at this time of year.Good luck,and best Wishes.