What is the best tool for trimming hedges?
Loppers can cut branches up to 2 inches thick. A small pruning saw can be used for branches larger than that. Pruning tools are easiest to use and make the healthiest cuts when they are sharp and clean. For hedge trimming, you can use manual hedge shears or a power hedge trimmer.
When should you not trim your hedges?
We recommend avoiding hedge cutting during the main breeding season for nesting birds, which usually runs throughout March to August each year. This can be weather dependent and some birds may nest outside this period, so it is important to always check carefully for active nests prior to cutting.
How can I make my hedge thicker?
Trim the shrub annually after the third pruning to remove any dead, broken or diseased branches. Remove one-quarter to one-third of the branches each year to encourage thick, healthy interior growth. Cut back any branches that extend past the desired perimeter of the shrub.
Can you use chainsaw to trim hedges?
A chainsaw can be used to trim bushes, hedges and shrubs. While not as effective as a hedge trimmer, a chainsaw can cut fast enough to trim through lighter woods. However, if you’re looking for those precision cuts, a hedge trimmer will best serve your purposes.
Is it illegal to trim hedges in summer?
Wildlife Protection The months of March through to the end of July is the breeding season for birds and as far as hedge cutting is concerned is considered a closed season and unless there exists unavoidable health and safety concerns hedge cutting during this season should be avoided.
Can I trim hedges in summer?
Now and through the summer months is the time to do any major pruning or cutting back of shrubs and trees. With the fast, summer growth rate upon us the plants will regrow and look beautiful for next fall season.
How far back can you trim hedges?
Don’t cut too far from or too close to the bud you want to encourage. Don’t cut branches flush against the trunk. Don’t cut more than one-fourth of the plant’s height in any one season. Don’t be afraid to prune — your plant actually needs it to remove dead wood and to take on the shape you want.
How much can you trim off a hedge?
How Far Can You Cut Back A Hedge? The rule of thumb for trimming hedges is to cut back no more than a third of the total volume of the hedge at one time. This is enough to encourage new growth in the top half of the plant without causing serious damage to its overall wellbeing.
What is the best time of year to trim hedges?
Ideally, late winter and early spring are the best times to cut back an overgrown hedge. Summer is best for trims that maintain their shape and height.
Does pruning stimulate growth?
Pruning stimulates growth closest to the cut in vertical shoots; farther away from cuts in limbs 45° to 60° from vertical. Pruning generally stimulates regrowth near the cut (Fig. 6). Vigorous shoot growth will usually occur within 6 to 8 inches of the pruning cut.