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Abstract
Hedgerows are man-made rows of trees or shrubs that separate crop fields, usually used to protect crops from wind damage. They function as a corridor of movement for many species, as they connect isolated patches of habitat. Hedgerows are often used in fruit tree production in the southeastern US, but they currently do not provide many resources to beneficial insects. Many insects require access to alternate hosts, overwintering habitats, a constant food supply, and microclimates, all of which can be provided by enhancing hedgerows with floral diversification. Our objective is to increase the architectural complexity of existing hedgerows in order to enhance natural enemy and pollinator abundance within the adjacent peach orchard. In our findings, we found that Diptera were the most common flower-visiting insects, and thrips were the most common pests. We have come to understand that it takes time for new plants to establish themselves, and it also takes time for present insect communities to recognize and utilize these added resources.