Well-maintained hedges are the backbone of residential and commercial gardens across the nation. They offer privacy, structure, a habitat for wildlife and year-round greenery. Whether you have a formal box hedge around your driveway or a tall shared boundary, good hedge care is needed to keep your plants healthy and under control.
At DH Tree Services, we’re often asked questions about hedge maintenance. Here are some hedge care FAQs answered for you.
How do you maintain a hedge effectively?
Proper hedge maintenance involves regular trimming at least once or twice a year, depending on the species. Fast-growing evergreens, like leylandii hedges, require more frequent attention, while slower-growing hedges need less. Trimming should give a tapered shape, so it’s a bit wider at the base. This allows sunlight to reach lower branches, preventing thinning at ground level.
When should you fertilise hedges?
Feeding your hedge in early spring with a balanced fertiliser and applying mulch around the base also retains moisture and improves soil quality. Regular watering in dry spells is important for young or newly planted hedges.
What is the legal height of a hedge between neighbours?
While there isn’t a strict maximum height for all hedges, the Anti-social Behaviour Act 2003, states a “high hedge” complaint can be made for those exceeding two metres in height when potentially affecting a neighbour’s enjoyment of their property. Local councils can investigate and may issue a remedial notice if they agree the hedge is causing a problem. Always communicate openly with your neighbour and attempt to reach a mutual agreement first.
Are you allowed to cut hedges?
Generally, you’re allowed to cut hedges growing within your own property boundary. You may also trim parts of a neighbour’s hedge overhanging your land, but you must not trespass or cut beyond your boundary without permission. It’s also important to be mindful of nesting birds, as it’s an offence to intentionally damage or destroy an active bird’s nest.
When should hedges be cut back?
Hedge cutting is best avoided during the main bird nesting season (typically March to August) unless you’re certain there are no active nests. Exact timing depends on the type of hedge, as some need two trims to maintain their shape, and others should only be pruned during dormancy. A professional tree surgeon will advise on the best schedule for your specific hedge species.
How do I bring my hedge back to life?
If your hedge is looking sparse, brown or unhealthy, don’t panic. Many hedges will recover with the right care. A tree surgeon can remove dead or diseased branches and provide advice on improving soil conditions and watering.
How to thicken up a hedge?
To create a dense and bushy hedge, regular trimming is key. Cutting back the tips of young growth encourages the plant to branch out and fill in gaps. Feeding in spring and maintaining consistent moisture levels will also promote vigorous growth.
Contact our hedge pruning service
DH Tree Services operates across London and Surrey, coming out to Addlestone, Ashtead and beyond. Book hedge pruning services on 01737 215 718 or via [email protected].
