What you need to know about trimming your hedges
Hedge trimming, also known as hedge cutting, is the practice of pruning tall hedges or overgrown plants for a variety of reasons. Passers-by would only get the sense that the hedges are being clipped for landscaping purposes. Trimming your hedges for a lovely landscape portrays a friendly environment. However, hedge-cutting entails more than merely reducing overgrowth. Continue reading to find out more.
Shaping nature's canvas
The basic idea behind hedge trimming is to clean up the area and make it more appealing. This can be achieved by cutting and shaping plants into various forms. Hedge trimming has also evolved into an art form. When you observe different figures of plants shaped into what the trimmer’s imagination can do, you can only admire how they were able to create masterpieces and works of art that imitate sculpture.
Maintaining boundaries and beauty
Hedges, like fences, serve as boundaries for dwellings, sidewalks, and gardens with shrubs and trees. Dead leaves fall frequently when branches protrude. Hedge pruning keeps the area from being congested with undesired plant components. A tree in a non-strategic location with unsightly branches and fruits can also be included in the trimming job.
Trimming techniques
Pruning is reducing overgrown plants by removing the heaviest branch first, starting from the root, to encourage regeneration. For the first two years, after they are planted, new hedges must be pruned. This is known as maintenance trimming. It is normally done once a year or twice a year for informal hedges. Formal hedges must be pruned at least three times per year.
When is the best time for trimming your hedges?
Understanding seasonal trimming patterns
If you choose to do maintenance trimming in Kings Lynn, the optimal times of the year are in the middle of spring and summer. However, this is not always the case. What matters is that understanding when to prune assures productive, healthy, and attractive plants. Plant specialists say that shrubs and trees require varied pruning times.
Deciduous hedges and plants
Deciduous trees and plants are covered for trimming as they have leaves that fall off each year. The majority of trees that shed have broad, wide, and flat leaves. Deciduous shrubs, on the other hand, are pruned or trimmed according to their growth habit, blooming seasons, or health.
Enhancing plant health and bloom
Neglected flowering shrubs, for example, should be clipped in early spring or late winter to resurrect the plants. The goal of rejuvenation is to restore the health of the plant. For healthy and well-maintained shrubs, prune them after their flowering season, and only lightly. This way, you’re providing these plants enough time to produce fresh blossoms for the future season.
The importance of trimming
Trimming your hedges or shrubs is not solely for aesthetic purposes. They do play an important role in your garden, providing gorgeous and colourful leaves, flowers, or fruits. Shrubs also create a sense of privacy by obscuring an unnecessary view of your home or the streets. They also serve as a pull for wildlife. So overall, pruning your shrubs properly and regularly keeps them in good form and health.
Other reasons for hedge pruning
- Wild birds nesting on your shrubs or trees may cause damage to the plant.
- Overgrown pavement branches obstruct pedestrians and paths.
- Extensive branches and dense foliage can become entangled in street electrical cables.
Safety when trimming
Selecting the right tools
Shears are required while pruning hedges. Shears are ideal for pruning tiny bushes that are below eye level. However, for larger bushes, an electric or gasoline-powered trimmer is preferable to cut thicker stems. Trimming your plants is more efficient with a sharp or well-lubricated shear.
Protective gear
Wearing goggles to protect your eyes from shredded plant fragments is always recommended for safety. Gloves, as opposed to bare hands, protect your hands from the weight of the shear and from picking loose stems and leaves.
Working safely with power tools
When working with power tools, use a ladder or a robust platform to reach the troublesome hedge. Using such instruments above your shoulder is risky since you could lose control of the device, especially if it is connected to an electrical outlet. Examine the cable to ensure that it is not entangled with anything on the ground or serves as an impediment.
Conclusion
Inquire with our tree surgeons in the King’s Lynn area if you have any questions about overgrown hedges. We have years of experience and training and can take care of trimming your hedges.