Hedges are usually set as a natural demarcation of properties. They serve as a space-forming design element within the garden, dividing the area and creating intimate spaces. If you care for the hedge carefully right from the start, the bushes will thrive better and grow wonderfully dense.
When and how should you trim a young hedge?
To properly trim a young hedge, carry out a planting cut immediately after planting, in which the main shoots are shortened by about a third. Encourage strong shoots and remove unwanted, poorly growing branches. Trim the hedge twice a year to promote denser growth.
The plant cut
This takes place immediately after setting a new fence. It is essential if you have planted bare-root bushes because it creates the balance between the roots and the above-ground part of the plant. This cut ensures that the newly created hedge grows beautifully bushy and dense from below. Pruning is definitely recommended for shrubs that are difficult to grow, such as hornbeam or hawthorn.
For cutting the young hedge, a mechanical hedge trimmer is sufficient (€24.00 at Amazon). Make sure the blades are clean and sharp to ensure smooth cutting surfaces. So the wounds close quickly. Blunt tools, on the other hand, crush the branches and leave frayed interfaces through which pathogens can penetrate.
Procedure:
- Short the main shoots by about a third.
- Promote strong shoots as the leading instinct.
- Cut out unwanted small or poorly growing branches.
- Also remove steep shoots and competing shoots.
More pruning
The more often you cut the bushes, the more the bushes will branch out. If you shorten a young hedge twice a year right from the start, it will grow a little slower, but it will grow denser.
Get cut. If it tapers upwards over a wide base, the light reaches all areas. This means that the branches do not become bare near the ground. Always tension a batter board so that you can work precisely.
Tip
Especially with a young hedge, it is important to find the right cutting size. If you are too hesitant, the care measure will have no effect. If you shorten the length too radically, unsightly bald spots can result. In addition, the hedge hardly increases in height.
