Hornbeam

Could anyone tell me whne is the correct time of year to prune an old hornbeam hedge?

Thanks.

 

Now is a good time Rydall.

 

Rydall,

What do you mean by prunning and old.

Is this just a light trim or major rejuvenation

Light trim I would now, major work in the winter.

 

The hedge is 23m long x 6 metres high and about 2 metres wide so it is old. Could I not just prune it hard now or would you still recommend pruning it lightly now Jurassic and then harder in the winter. I was going to have some scaffolding erected to carry out the job and do not want to really have to pay for this twice. What would you recommend?

Many thanks...

 

Hi Rydall,

Are you sure that's a hedge 'cos at 6mtrs (20 feet) its BIG.

If you want it as a hedge then you are looking at cutting at least once a year.

What are you aimimg for in terms of width and height. Do you need it so high and wide.


Is this to be a formal hedge or infomal.

Another question - how thick are the trunks.

If this was hazel I would be thinking about laying it.

scaffolding is much too expensive. If you intand to work on this regularly then consider buying some sort of platform (ground needs to be level on both sides. It will be the working height of that that will dictate the height of your hedge.

Sorry, just thinking ahead

 

Hi Jurassic,

Yes, it is BIG and it is a HEDGE! Hard to believe I know. It is not actually in my garden it is in my friends who isn't into gardening.
His wife wants it staying at a reasonable height and just giving some shape.

It is a formal hedge where the ground is level on both sides. The trunks are as thick as a thigh muscle. It's a really old hedge. The lady who used to come to play in their garden as a child remembered it being planted and she is now in her seventies!

I had thought of suggesting he got one of those platforms with lockable wheels. Whatever happends it will be a big job. Do you reckon it would be easier to wait until leaf drop?

Cheers...

 

Rydall, I would say take the bull by the horns and go for it now. David.

 

Thanks David.

 

From RHS "For best results, deciduous hedges should be renovated in winter, and evergreen ones in mid-spring."

Also goes on about how to renovate an overgrown hedge.

 

Thanks Jurassic. It has now turned into a light trim as my friends may be moving instead. Phew!