How Often Should You Prune Your Hedges? 


Well, there is a huge amount of information out there on all the tiny intricate details to when and how you should prune your hedges to keep them looking best. Of course, different advice for different outcomes. But here is our advice on the most common hedges in the UK and when to give them a cut!



Pruning hedges is not just about aesthetics, it's also crucial for the health of your plants. Proper pruning encourages healthy growth, prevents diseases, and ensures that your hedges remain dense and vibrant. However, the frequency and timing of pruning depend on the type of hedge you have.

Common Hedge Types in UK Gardens


  1. Box (Buxus)
  2. Yew (Taxus baccata)
  3. Privet (Ligustrum)
  4. Beech (Fagus sylvatica)
  5. Hawthorn (Crataegus monogyna)
  6. Laurel (Prunus laurocerasus)
  7. Leylandii (Cupressocyparis leylandii)


Pruning Frequency and Best Practices


1. Box (Buxus)

  • Frequency: Prune 2-3 times a year.
  • Best Time: Late May to early June and again in late August.
  • Tips: Regular trimming helps maintain the shape and prevents the plant from becoming too woody.


2. Yew (Taxus baccata)

  • Frequency: Once a year.
  • Best Time: Late summer to early autumn.
  • Tips: Yew can handle hard pruning if needed, which helps in restoring old or overgrown hedges.


3. Privet (Ligustrum)

  • Frequency: 3-4 times a year.
  • Best Time: Early spring, summer, and early autumn.
  • Tips: Regular pruning encourages dense growth and maintains a neat appearance.


4. Beech (Fagus sylvatica)

  • Frequency: Twice a year.
  • Best Time: Late summer and early spring.
  • Tips: Beech hedges retain their brown leaves in winter, providing year-round privacy if pruned correctly.


5. Hawthorn (Crataegus monogyna)

  • Frequency: Twice a year.
  • Best Time: Late spring and early autumn.
  • Tips: Hawthorn flowers in spring, so prune after flowering to enjoy its seasonal display.


6. Laurel (Prunus laurocerasus)

  • Frequency: Twice a year.
  • Best Time: Early spring and mid-summer.
  • Tips: Laurel hedges grow quickly, so keep them in check with regular pruning to prevent them from becoming too large.


7. Leylandii (Cupressocyparis leylandii)

  • Frequency: 2-3 times a year.
  • Best Time: Spring, summer, and early autumn.
  • Tips: Leylandii can grow very tall and wide if not regularly pruned. Keep them at a manageable size to prevent disputes with neighbours.


Regular pruning is key to maintaining beautiful and healthy hedges in your garden. By understanding the specific needs of different hedge types and following the recommended pruning schedule, you can ensure that your garden remains thriving.


At Somerset Tree Care, we offer professional hedge pruning services tailored to the unique needs of each plant. Whether you need a one-time trim or regular maintenance, our team of experts are here to help. Contact us today to keep your garden looking its best all year round.


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