Keeping your hedges in shape is a key part of maintaining a tidy, attractive garden—but knowing when to cut your hedges is just as important as how. Whether you’ve got boxwood borders, laurel screens, or conifer hedges, this guide will help you find the best time of year to trim your hedges for optimal health and appearance.
Why Timing Matters When Cutting Hedges
Hedge trimming isn’t just about appearance. The right time to cut your hedges affects
- Growth rate and shape
- Plant health and disease resistance
- Wildlife protection (especially nesting birds)
- Long-term maintenance needs
Poorly timed hedge cutting can lead to dieback, uneven growth, or even legal issues if you disturb nesting birds—so timing is everything!
When to Cut Evergreen Hedges (e.g. Leylandii, Laurel, Yew)
Best time: Late spring to early summer (May–June)
Second trim: Late summer if needed (August–September)
Evergreen hedges benefit from one or two trims a year. The first encourages dense, healthy growth, while a second (lighter) trim keeps things tidy into winter.
💡 Tip: Avoid trimming in early spring as new growth is still establishing, and never trim during hot, dry spells to prevent stress on the plant.
When to Cut Deciduous Hedges (e.g. Beech, Hawthorn, Hornbeam)
Best time: Mid to late summer (July–August)
Deciduous hedges are best cut once their spring growth has matured. This helps them keep their shape without encouraging excessive regrowth before autumn.
🛑 Important: Always check for nesting birds between March and August. It is an offence to disturb active nests under the Wildlife and Countryside Act 1981.
Formal vs Informal Hedges: Does It Change the Timing?
Yes! Formal hedges (neatly clipped and shaped) usually need more frequent trimming — two to three times a year. Informal hedges (more natural, flowering varieties) are best trimmed after flowering to avoid cutting off blooms.
Examples:
- Privet or box (formal): Trim 2–3 times from May–September
- Forsythia or lilac (informal): Prune after flowering
Can You Cut Hedges in Winter?
Yes, dormant hedges can be pruned in winter — especially if you’re doing hard or rejuvenation pruning. This applies mostly to older or overgrown hedges.
- Ideal months: January to early March
- Avoid during heavy frost or snowfall
Winter is not ideal for shaping hedges, but it’s perfect for heavier work that might stress the plant if done in warmer months.
Quick Hedge Trimming Calendar
| Hedge Type | Best Trim Times | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Evergreen | May–June & Aug–Sept | Shape in early summer, tidy later |
| Deciduous | July–August | Check for nesting birds |
| Flowering | After flowering | Encourages more blooms |
| Formal Hedges | 2–3 times (May–Sept) | Maintain shape regularly |
| Rejuvenation Cut | Jan–March (dormant) | For major shaping or thinning |
Final Thoughts: Plan Your Hedge Cutting Wisely
So, when should you get your hedges cut? The answer depends on the type of hedge, its purpose, and the seasonal timing. For best results, work with a professional hedge-cutting service that understands your specific plants and local wildlife laws.
Need Help with Hedge Cutting in Hampshire?
At Lawns & Hedges, we offer professional hedge-cutting services in Bishops Waltham and surrounding areas, tailored to the season and species. From tidy trims to full reshaping, we keep your garden looking its best year-round.
📞 Get in touch today for a free quote or hedge care advice!