When is the best time to trim your hedge?

Trimming a hedge at the right time makes the difference between a full, healthy hedge and one that goes bare on the inside. Here’s a short overview.

The best time per season

• Spring (April–May): a first shaping cut once the worst of the frost has passed. Watch out for nesting birds.
• Summer (June–July): the main maintenance trim. The hedge is full of leaf and holds its shape into the autumn.
• Autumn (September): a final touch-up before winter sets in.

Fast-growing species like privet need attention two to three times a year. Slow growers like yew or beech are often fine with just one trim.

Mind the nesting season

Between mid-March and mid-July, birds nest in hedges. If I trim during that period, I keep an eye out for nests and adjust the work around them. That’s not just the decent thing to do, it’s also a legal requirement.

Rather not do it yourself?

Trimming a long or tall hedge straight and even is more work than it looks. If you’d like to hand it over, send me a message. I’ll trim the hedge into shape and cart off the clippings.