Quick Facts: Hedge Trimming

Suitable for: All hedges, including formal and informal styles.

Best Time to Prune: Late winter or early spring for formative pruning.

Best Time for Maintenance Trimming: Spring and summer, depending on species.

Difficulty: Fairly simple with the right tools and guidance.

When to Trim Your Hedges:

Newly planted hedges require formative pruning in late winter or early spring during their first two years to establish their shape—whether decorative or for privacy.

For mature hedges:

Winter Pruning: Conduct annual pruning during the dormant season to encourage healthy growth and maintain structure.

Summer Maintenance Trimming: Trim during late spring or summer to keep your hedges looking neat. Informal hedges can usually be trimmed once a season, while formal hedges may need two or three trims, depending on their growth rate.

Special Considerations:

• Bird Nests: Delay trimming if birds are nesting in your hedges, allowing time for them to raise their young.
• Evergreens: Evergreen hedges grow slowly and should only be pruned in early spring to avoid bare spots.
• Flowering Shrubs: Trim flowering hedges after the blooms fade to avoid cutting off next year’s buds.
• Restoring Areas: Fast growing hedges can quickly obstruct areas and need trimming to restore function to the area.

Tools For Hedge Trimming:

Hand-Held Pruning Shears: Best for small hedges and precise trimming of inner branches. Thes are best for branches under 1".

Loppers and Bypass Pruners: These pruners are great for cutting branches in the 2 inch diameter range.

Long Reach Pruners: Long Reach Pruners allow the cutting of twins and branches up to 1" several feet away from the operator.

Powered Hedge Trimmers: Electric or gas-powered tools make quick work of large hedges.

Loppers or Secateurs: Ideal for cutting thicker branches or overgrown sections.

Pole Saws and Pole Pruners: For overhead tasks you cant go wrong with a set of Jameson poles and their respective cutting heads.

Pro Tip: Keep your tools sharp and well-lubricated to ensure clean cuts that promote healthy growth.

Learn more about Arborists favorite pruning tools

Steps for Trimming Formal Hedges:

Formal hedges require precise trimming to maintain uniformity. Follow these steps for perfectly shaped hedges.

Create a Guide: Use a taut horizontal string tied between stakes to guide your cuts for straight edges and even heights.

Taper the Sides: Keep the base slightly wider than the top to ensure sunlight reaches all parts of the hedge.

Use Templates for Shaping: If shaping the hedge into an arch or other design, use a cardboard or plywood template to guide your cuts.

Power Trimming: Move the blade in broad, sweeping motions from bottom to top.

Prune Inner Branches: Every few feet, cut a few interior branches at a 45-degree angle to improve airflow and sunlight penetration.

How to Maintain Informal Hedges:

Informal hedges are less uniform and require light trimming to maintain their natural shape.

Trim new growth in summer or after flowering for species that bloom. Use hand shears or loppers to avoid damaging foliage, especially on evergreen shrubs. Remove misplaced shoots and shape the hedge to your desired size.

For old or overgrown hedges, apply the three-year rule:

Remove up to one-third of the thickest stems at the base each year for three years. Allow new growth to emerge before trimming again. This rejuvenation technique encourages healthy regrowth and restores the hedge's shape over time.

Hedge Trimming Safety Tips:

Wear Protective Gear: Gloves, goggles, and sturdy footwear are essential.

Remove Obstacles: Clear debris or obstacles near the hedge.

Avoid Overhead Cutting: Do not use power tools above shoulder height. Use a stable ladder for higher sections.

Be Cautious with Electric Tools: Avoid wet conditions, and carry the cord over your shoulder to prevent accidents.