Here at Bottle Brook Gardens we offer a professional hedge trimming service to customers within Derbyshire and Derby. We often get asked questions such as:
"When not to cut hedges?"
"What month is the best to trim hedges?"
"Is it illegal to cut hedges in Summer?"
So let me get straight to the point(s):
Most birds nest between March & July, so it's best to trim your hedges outside of these months!
Each hedge variety has a specific time period in which they are best trimmed.
No, it's not illegal, but it's complicated.
Why is it complicated? The Wildlife & Countryside Act (1981) document was enacted for the protection of wild birds and their nests and eggs. At no point are any specific dates set as to when you can and cannot commence hedge trimming. However...
You must not:
intentionally kill, injure or take any wild bird
intentionally damage, destroy or take the nest of any wild bird while it is in use or being built (nests of golden eagle, white tailed eagle and osprey are protected all year round);
intentionally destroy an egg of any wild bird;
intentionally or recklessly disturb certain wild birds2 or their dependent young while they are nesting (including disturbance of nesting young
What does this all mean? Well, although you have not directly committed an offence in starting hedge trimming between March and July, there is more chance that if you do cut your hedges during this time you may disturb a bird, it's nest or it's eggs. So, it's best avoided when possible!
Now that's out the way, let's discuss when to trim your hedges to promote optimal health and growth...
Seasonal Timing:
Trimming your hedges at the right time of year is essential for encouraging healthy growth and minimizing stress on the plants. The best time to trim hedges typically depends on the specific species you're dealing with, but as a general rule of thumb, there are two main periods to consider: spring and late summer/early fall.
Spring Trimming: Spring is a time of rejuvenation for many plants, making it an excellent opportunity to give your hedges a trim. Aim to prune your hedges in late spring, after the threat of frost has passed and new growth has begun. Trimming in spring allows you to shape the hedge and remove any dead or damaged branches before the growing season kicks into high gear. This early attention encourages the plants to put their energy into producing new shoots and foliage, resulting in denser, healthier growth throughout the summer months.
Late Summer/Early Fall Trimming: Another optimal time to trim hedges is in late summer or early fall. By this time, the vigorous growth of spring and early summer has slowed down, and the plants are preparing for dormancy. Trimming in late summer allows you to tidy up the hedge before winter sets in, ensuring that it looks neat and well-maintained throughout the dormant season. Additionally, removing excess growth at this time can help prevent damage from heavy snow or ice accumulation during the winter months.
Consider the Growth Rate:
When determining the best time to trim your hedges, it's also essential to consider the growth rate of the specific plant species. Fast-growing hedges may require more frequent trimming to maintain their desired shape, while slower-growing varieties may only need occasional pruning to keep them in check. Understanding the growth habits of your hedges will help you develop a tailored pruning schedule that promotes optimal health and appearance.
Avoid Trimming During Extreme Weather:
While spring and late summer/early fall are generally the best times to trim hedges, it's crucial to avoid pruning during periods of extreme heat or drought. Trimming during these conditions can place additional stress on the plants, making them more susceptible to damage and disease. Instead, aim to schedule your pruning sessions during mild weather conditions when the plants are actively growing and able to recover more quickly from the stress of pruning.
Thanks for reading, remember if you have a tree and hedge trimming service requirement near Belper, or wider Derbyshire, get in touch with us today!