Posted: Fri Jun 30, 06 1:38 pm Post subject: Hedge trimming
We've got 200 metrs of established hedging, mainly hawthorn, Rich the tractor says he usually cuts it around August, I don't like the idea of that, surely the berries etc should be left over winter?
When should I let him cut it?
Northern_Lad
Joined: 13 Dec 2004 Posts: 14210 Location: Somewhere
Posted: Fri Jun 30, 06 1:42 pm Post subject:
I'd definetly do it in the dorment season.
How well is it laid? If it's not that well laid then get it laid properly early next year.
Posted: Fri Jun 30, 06 1:46 pm Post subject: Re: Hedge trimming
tahir wrote:
We've got 200 metrs of established hedging, mainly hawthorn, Rich the tractor says he usually cuts it around August, I don't like the idea of that, surely the berries etc should be left over winter?
When should I let him cut it?
In that case there is a very short window at the end of winter/before spring, before they start nesting (if the ground is dry enough to get on).
Once your hedge is established, trim it every third year - but never trim during nesting season (1 March to 1 September). In fact, it is an offence under the Wildlife and Countryside Act 1981 to intentionally destroy a nest that is used or being used. It is more ideal to trim in February to allow the nuts and berries to be available for a longer period to birds and mammals.
As Behemoth has pointed out, hedging is a winter occupation. Forget about it until the first frosts, and preferably leave it until at least the end of January. You're also less likely to traumatise the plants that make up your hedge by waiting until they're fully dormant.
How does your tractor man cut it? If you ever want to lay the hedge, flail cutters might not be the best idea. They are quick, however.
If you ever want to lay the hedge, flail cutters might not be the best idea. They are quick, however.
Flails are never the best idea, but as you point out, they are quick & mulch all the trimmings. If the hedge is too established & they are used to cut back rather than trim, you are in stump grinding territory & not only is it not good for the plant, it looks awful.
He flails it, how should it be trimmed for laying?
By hand, chainsaw, reciprocating knife (he'll look as you funny if you ask him if he's got one) or circular saw blade.
Northern_Lad
Joined: 13 Dec 2004 Posts: 14210 Location: Somewhere
Posted: Fri Jun 30, 06 2:01 pm Post subject:
tahir wrote:
... how should it be trimmed for laying?
You need to make sure you have some tall, thick, vertical branches so they can be partly chopped and flattened. I think the recommended is about a pole (5.5 yards). That gives you the ability to get a few layers deep at any point.
You could probably get away with flailing the sides as long as you get good verical growth from ground level.
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