There are several reasons why a hornbeam hedge needs to be radically shortened. Since it tolerates pruning very well, a very heavy pruning will not harm it and the hedge will recover within a short time. What you need to consider when radically cutting.
When and how should you radically cut a hornbeam hedge?
A radical hornbeam hedge can be done in spring or August. Immediately after planting, cut them back to three eyes or remove old branches and bare spots for rejuvenation. After cutting, fertilize and water the hedge, but avoid waterlogging.
Reasons for a radical pruning
- Compaction after planting
- Hedge too high or wide
- Rejuvenation of the hornbeam hedge
- Removal of diseased shoots
- Cutting Shapes
Short radically after planting
Immediately after planting in autumn, the hornbeam hedge is still very thin and opaque. So that it branches quickly, all shoots are radically shortened except for three eyes, which previously have no branches.
Cut hornbeam hedges into shape
Hornbeams are extremely tolerant of pruning. Even as a beginner, you can hardly do anything wrong, even if you cut the hedge back to the ground, i.e. down to the ground.
If the hornbeam hedge has become too high or too wide for you, feel free to cut it back heavily at the top. The unsightly spots will soon be hidden under new foliage.
Radical pruning is also necessary if you want to cut certain shapes, for example an arch or a covered garden gate.
Strong pruning for rejuvenation
Older hornbeam hedges tend to become bald. You should therefore rejuvenate it from time to time so that the hedge remains tight.
In the spring, all old branches are sawn off directly above the ground. Non-branched shoots are shortened significantly.
The best time to radically cut a hornbeam hedge
It's best to radically shorten hornbeam hedges in spring, before the hornbeam sprouts. Strong pruning is still possible in August. During the birds' breeding season from March to June, radical pruning is not permitted.
Care after radical cutting
After a radical cut, the hornbeam needs a lot of nutrients in order to develop he althy new shoots. Younger hedges can tolerate fertilization afterwards.
After cutting, you should water the hornbeam hedge well so that it recovers quickly. But be sure to avoid waterlogging.
Tip
Older hornbeam shoots can no longer be cut with secateurs. Use pruning saws (€45.00 on Amazon) to cut out strong branches. If the hornbeam hedge is very long, it is worth buying an electric hedge trimmer.