How to Cut and Trim a Hedge

As the spring & summer months get closer & we're getting ready to enjoy time outdoors again, why not add hedge trimming to your garden cleaning prep list.

BBQ's, sunbathing & parties get us out in our back gardens and we'll want our outdoor areas looking their best for when the time comes. You might also have hedges in your front garden too which will need neatening up from time to time.

Take a look at some of our tips and advice on how to cut and trim a hedge.

Picking The Right Tool for You

Before you get started on your hedge cut or trim, you'll need to decide what type of tool you're going to use.

• Secateurs - These tools are great for providing a more precise cut to your hedges.
• Loppers - Perfect for cutting smaller sized branches as well as medium to large stems.
• Shears - Shears are ideal for shaping & pruning as well as getting to hard to reach areas thanks to the tools long handles.
• Hedge Trimmers - This power tool is best for cutting and trimmer larger hedges. Unlike the other hand tools mentioned, hedge trimmers are petrol or electrically powered & can be corded or cordless. Please be advised to read the power tools manual before using it.

If you don't have any of these garden tools in your collection, you can buy or hire them from HSS either online or at one of our branches.

Getting Started

Check the Hedge Before Cutting or Trimming - Before any cutting happens, check the sides of the hedge to see how it has grown as some sides that have grown more than others. It's also a good idea to look for any nesting animals that may have set up home in or under your hedge as well as other obstacles.

Lay Down Material - To make cleaning up easier, why not lay down some material such as tarpaulin or large rubbish bags to collect the hedge trimmings. Doing this saves you time as you can dispose of everything all at once instead of sweeping the leaves and branches into a pile and then having to bend down frequently to put it all in the bin.

Wear Protective Gear - To keep yourself safe when cutting your hedges, you'll need to wear protective clothing. Goggles, gloves and ear defenders can help prevent injury especially if you're using an electric or petrol powered hedge trimmer.

Cut The Sides 1st - Whichever tool you decide to use for cutting your hedges, make sure they are as sharp as possible so they can cut through any branches & stems. Start cutting or trimming from the bottom of the hedges making sure that the blades are kept parallel to the hedges side. As you cut, double check that the top of the hedges don't become wider than the bottom. If the top of the hedges becomes wider, less light will reach to the base which can cause the hedges to grow poorly.

Keep Checking - Don't forget to keep checking your progress as you cut or trim your hedge. Look for uneven sides & try not to cut too low - you should aim to trim 1 - 4 inches of growth at least. If your hedge has really overgrown, you may need to cut off more.

Use String - If you need support cutting the top of the hedge in a straight line, tie some string on to 2 wooden poles/stakes and place them at either end of the hedge. The string can be used a guide so you don't give your hedge a wonky cut.

When is The Best Time to Cut or Trim a Hedge?

Cutting or trimming your hedge depends on different things. Different species of hedges grow at different rates over the course of the year. The most common time to trim your hedges is during spring & summer however, look out for nesting animals as mentioned. If you find a nest, try to wait a while so you don't disturb the wildlife. If you need to cut your hedge in the colder months, it's best to do it on a day where there's no frost. We would advise you trim your hedges on a dry day especially if you're using an electric hedge trimmer.

Get in Touch

If you have any questions or queries about any of our hedge trimmer models or garden hand tools, get in touch with our live chat experts who are on hand and happy to help or contact your local HSS branch.

You may also like

SUBSCRIBE TO HSS HIRE BLOG

Make sure you never miss out on our latest trade offers and news from HSS Hire Group. Sign up today.