How and when to trim the hedge
Tanto evergreen hedges and deciduous hedges must be trimmed regularly to preserve their health and shape. This article distinguishes and explains two types of hedge pruning: maintenance pruning and renewal pruning.
Maintenance pruning: to keep the hedge shape
The purpose of maintenance pruning is to give or maintain the hedge’s shape. It involves cutting new shoots so the desired height and width are preserved.
Deciduous hedges usually need two trims per year, while evergreens typically need just one. The first maintenance cut should be done when the shoots are mature (April to May). If a second trim is needed, it should be carried out from early September to mid‑October.
Renewal pruning of the hedge
This involves cutting two thirds of the fruit‑bearing shoots. The aim is to reduce the number of shoots and strengthen the remaining ones. It’s a way to clean the hedge so it grows stronger and healthier.
Renewal pruning should be performed once a year during winter, when the hedge is dormant. Choose days without frost or extreme cold, and preferably when the hedge is dry.
In some woody hedge species, during the first year it is advisable to perform a more intense renewal prune by cutting three quarters of the shoots. The goal is to encourage stronger branching. This intense pruning must be done by March at the latest.
Hedge pruning techniques: vertical and horizontal pruning
How should you cut the hedge with shears?
To trim a hedge with hand shears, cut from the bottom up in circular motions. Ideally cut in a rectangular shape, keeping the top slightly narrower than the bottom to ensure sunlight reaches the whole hedge.
The hedge should be trimmed both horizontally (setting the hedge height) and vertically (setting the hedge width).
At this link you can view all Altuna hedge trimming tools.
Vertical pruning
As mentioned, cut from bottom to top in circular motions to give the hedge the desired depth or width.
Horizontal pruning
This involves marking the desired height—often using a string guide—and then trimming with shears at up to a 10° angle relative to the hedge’s horizontal plane.
When to prune hedges based on species
There are many hedge species. Below are the most common ones, with recommended pruning timing and frequency.
Evergreen hedges
- Boxwood hedge:
Prune 2 or 3 times during the growing season. - Holly:
One pruning at the end of summer. - Ligustrum hedge:
Trim 2 or 3 times during the growth period. - Honeysuckle:
2 or 3 trims during the growth season. - Cherry laurel:
2 prunings during the growing season.
Conifers
- Lawson cypress:
2 prunings, one in spring and one in summer. - Leyland cypress:
Trim 2 or 3 times during the growing season. - Common yew:
2 prunings, one in summer and one in autumn. - Giant thuja or red cedar:
2 times a year, once in spring and once in early autumn.
Deciduous hedges
- Hornbeam or birch:
Once in mid or late summer. - Hawthorn:
Cut twice a year, once in summer and once in autumn. - Common beech:
One prune at the end of summer.
HOW TO HOLD THE TOOL
When holding the shears, keep them as close to your body as possible to reduce fatigue. The weight of the shears also matters: carbon‑fiber handles are very light and durable, making them easier to handle.
