- Reasons for a radical cutback
- Prune radically after planting
- Cut hornbeam hedges into shape
- Heavy pruning for rejuvenation
- The best time to radically cut a hornbeam hedge
- Care after radical cutting
There are several reasons why a hornbeam hedge must be radically shortened. Since it tolerates pruning very well, a very strong pruning will not damage it and the hedge will recover within a short time. What to consider when cutting radically.
The best time for a radical pruning is early spring
Reasons for a radical cutback
- compaction after planting
- Hedge too high or wide
- Rejuvenation of the hornbeam hedge
- Removal of diseased shoots
- cutting shapes
Prune radically after planting
Immediately after planting in autumn, the hornbeam hedge is still very thin and transparent. So that it branches quickly, all shoots are radically shortened except for three eyes that have not yet branched.
Cut hornbeam hedges into shape
Hornbeams are extremely tolerant of pruning. Even as a beginner, you can hardly do anything wrong, even if you cut the hedge back to stick, i.e. to the ground.
If the hornbeam hedge has become too high or too wide for you, you can cut it back vigorously at the top. The unsightly spots are soon hidden under new foliage.
A radical pruning is also necessary if you want to cut certain shapes, for example a round arch or a covered garden gate.
Heavy pruning for rejuvenation
Older hornbeam hedges tend to become bare. You should therefore rejuvenate them from time to time so that the hedge remains dense.
In the spring, all old branches are sawn off directly above the ground. Unbranched shoots are severely shortened.
The best time to radically cut a hornbeam hedge
It is best to radically shorten hornbeam hedges in the spring, before the hornbeam sprout. Even in August, a strong pruning is still possible. During the breeding season of the birds from March to June, radical pruning is not allowed.
Care after radical cutting
After a radical pruning, the hornbeam needs a lot of nutrients to develop healthy new shoots. Younger hedges can then tolerate fertilization.
After cutting, you should water the hornbeam hedge well so that it recovers quickly. But be sure to avoid waterlogging.
tips
Older shoots of the hornbeam can no longer be cut with secateurs. Use pruning saws to cut out strong branches. If the hornbeam hedge is very long, it is worth buying an electric hedge trimmer (€24.99).