Pruning beech hedges: expert tips for when & how

Beech hedges can be a real eye-catcher in the garden. But when and how do you prune them correctly? We have tips on pruning beech hedges for you.

Beech hedges are one of the most popular hedges and are very decorative, especially in summer. Either copper beech (Fagus sylvatica) or hornbeam (Carpinus betulus), which look very similar, are used for beech hedges. In order for beech hedges to maintain their shape, the pruning shears or saw should come out at least once a year. We will show you when it is best to prune and how to do it.

When to cut beech hedges?

The timing of pruning can have an effect on wildlife. This is because some birds may be disturbed in the hedges.

When should beech hedges be pruned?

Radical pruning of your beech hedge should therefore only be carried out in the period from October to February inclusive, as otherwise birds may be disturbed during the breeding season. From February to September, be sure to refrain from pruning. But do not worry small and superficial work on the hedge is still allowed, as long as you are very careful and check the hedge for birds in advance. For further pruning, the period after June 24 is suitable, because then the main breeding season of most birds is over, and the plant can still grow back for a time.

Radically pruning beech hedges

In the spring of each year, you should perform a heavier pruning on your beech hedge. At this stage, radical pruning of the plant does not cause much trouble. Due to nature conservation, perform pruning only from autumn to spring, so at this time you should cut back about half the volume of the hedge. At this point, it is also worthwhile to create a topiary, to stop the hedge growing in every direction.

Pruning beech hedges in 2 steps

It is worth pruning beech hedges several times during the year so that they stay in shape and grow compactly at the same time. We’ll show you how to do it:

1. In early spring (ideally February), cut back the beech hedge heavily. To do this, cut off old and diseased branches and greatly thin out the hedge. Depending on taste, the beech hedge can be cut directly into shape: a shape that becomes more pointed towards the top is ideal for this. This allows all parts of the plant get enough light.
2. From the end of June, you can perform another, but only light pruning on the outside of the hedge. This pruning serves to further branch the hedge and ensures a compact growth form. Still, be careful: birds may still be in your beech hedge after June.

To keep your hedges nice and green and dense, some care is needed.