How to Trim Your Hedge
This guide shows you how to give a deciduous hedge its final trim of the year, tidying up growth before the colder months set in. You'll learn how to check for nesting birds, set up a straight line to cut to and shape the sides so light reaches all the way down. The hands-on work takes an hour or two for an average garden hedge. After that, it's just keeping an eye on things while it settles in for winter.
When
Early Autumn
Difficulty
Moderate
Hands-on time
2 hours
You'll need
- ✓Hedge shears
- ✓Loppers
- ✓String & pegs
- ✓Dust sheet
- ✓Safety goggles
- ✓Gloves
- ✓Ear defenders (optional)
Dan's Tip
Always check for nesting birds before you start, it's a legal requirement, not just good practice. A quick look through the hedge for a minute or two is usually all it takes.
Step by step guide
Check for Birds
Look carefully through the hedge for any signs of nests before you begin. It's an offence to disturb an active nest, so if you spot one, leave that section until the birds have finished.
Choose a Dry Day
Pick a calm, dry day to trim, damp growth is harder to cut cleanly and can clog your shears. Still conditions also make it much easier to keep your lines straight.
10 more steps, plus winter care, common mistakes, troubleshooting and FAQs
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