When nature slowly retreats in autumn, it's time to do one last hedge trimming. With the right technique and taking external factors into account, new shoots will form in the spring that follows, so that you can look forward to a green property boundary next year.
The autumn cut should not be done too late
Cutting a hedge in the fall - this is how you do it right
Put on the scissors and radically shorten the hedge? Unfortunately, it's not that simple. A little experience, how best to use the scissors and which days are best, is part of a perfect cut. If you cut your hedge spontaneously and carelessly, there is a risk of permanent damage, especially in autumn. You should therefore consider the following aspects:
- the technique
- the time
- the weather
- special plants
The technique
The correct use of the hedge trimmer (€24.99) needs to be learned. Experts recommend working your way up the sides from the bottom up. It is best to fix the tip of your tool. This guarantees a straight cut.
time and weather
As the days get shorter, don't put off trimming the hedge for too long. If you reach for the scissors too late, the injured shoots will not recover and are very sensitive to frost. The outside temperature should still be above 5°C. If you choose an autumn day that is too cold, you will not be able to achieve a clean cut. You're more likely to have to squeeze the branches, resulting in poor wound healing. It is best to cut back the hedge in the fall in mid-October. But even at the beginning of November, the outside air is usually still acceptable. Right now cloudy days are the order of the day. The hedge does not get sunlight when cutting. Cut branches then dry out particularly quickly at the cutting points. If you would like to optimize the time even more precisely, only use the hedge trimmer in the afternoon. By this time, sap from the branches has already withdrawn into the seed, preventing it from drying out.
Be careful with box trees
Box trees in particular tend to sprout again after pruning. A late date would likely mean dying due to the approaching frost. You should therefore get box trees in shape as early as late summer.
Hedge trimming is even regulated by law
However, you should not start your hedge trimming too early. According to the Nature Conservation Act, only topiary is permitted until the end of September so as not to endanger breeding birds. If you disregard this rule, you risk a fine.