Hedges are an ideal privacy screen and bring natural green into the garden. Another advantage is the sheer freedom in the selection of the plants. Depending on the wood, however, a hedge requires regular pruning in order to continue to give off a well-groomed appearance. On this page you can find out how and when you can best make the pruning.
In summer, only small topiary cuts should be made
Pay attention to the legal regulations
A radical pruning of a hedge may only be done in the cold season from October to February. This is prescribed by the Nature Conservation Union. The reason is nesting birds that like to settle in the bushes. There is nothing wrong with a moderate topiary, even in summer. However, before you reach for the hedge trimmer (€77.00), you should make sure that you are not disturbing any breeding birds.
The right time
June is an ideal month to trim a hedge in summer. At the beginning of the warm season, the days are not yet too sunny and hot. It is more advisable to cut a hedge on overcast days. Experts advise pruning on June 24th, St. John's Day. From this point in time, the second leaf shoot appears in many plants. As a result, your hedge will retain its trimmed shape well into the coming year and will no longer show extensive growth.
Exactly when you reach for the hedge trimmer always depends on the species of your trees. Below you will find an overview of plants that are suitable for either early or late pruning.
Shrubs for early pruning
- deutcia
- - Forsythia
- garden jasmine
- box trees
Shrubs for late pruning
- hornbeams
- elder
- hazelnut
Just don't wait too long
A late cut in late summer usually results in poor wound healing. This manifests itself in the clear brown coloring of the leaves. Some plants tend to shoot again after pruning. The young twigs are then very sensitive to frost.
The right technique
Gardeners recommend the pyramidal or conical cut of a hedge. This means the shape tapers towards the crown. In this way you ensure sufficient light supply for the individual shrubs that are close together. Start removing branches at the sides and work your way up to the crown. To make a straight cut, it helps to stretch a rope. You should never cut conifers back to the old wood. This would prevent a renewed expulsion.
The right tool
In most cases, the use of a chainsaw is not necessary. A hedge trimmer will also do the job, provided it has sharp cutting blades. Small improvements and irregularities can be compensated better with the manual tool anyway. But above all, pay attention to your safety. Protective gloves are highly recommended, if necessary you should also wear protective goggles.