Overgrown hedges are one of the most common problems we encounter across Hampshire, Dorset and Wiltshire. A hedge that has been left uncut for several years can become extremely wide, leggy and full of dead wood inside. But most hedge species respond remarkably well to hard renovation pruning — even very old specimens.
Which Hedges Can Be Cut Hard?
Most broadleaved hedging species will regenerate from hard pruning: yew, box, privet, beech, hornbeam, hawthorn and holly all respond well. However, conifers (except yew) generally will not regenerate from brown wood — Leylandii and other cypresses cut back into the brown zone are unlikely to recover.
- Yew — can be cut back to bare wood, always regenerates
- Beech and hornbeam — excellent response to hard pruning
- Hawthorn and blackthorn — regenerates vigorously
- Holly — slow to respond but does recover
- Privet — responds rapidly to hard cutting
- Leylandii — do NOT cut into brown, dead wood zone
Timing Your Hedge Renovation
The best time to carry out hard hedge renovation is late winter or early spring — February to early March in Hampshire. The hedge is dormant, you can see what you are doing without foliage, and the plant has the whole growing season ahead to recover.
The Renovation Process
Cut one side hard in year one, allowing it to recover before cutting the other side hard the following year. This phased approach reduces the stress on the plant and gives a better recovery. Feed well after pruning with a general-purpose granular fertiliser and water in dry spells.
A&T Landscapes carries out hedge renovation and ongoing hedge maintenance across Hampshire, Dorset and Wiltshire. Call 07735 916029 for a free quote.