Strict time frame: 1. October to 28./29. February
The legal situation is the same for garden owners and allotment gardeners as it is for cities and municipalities: In the period between 1. March and 30. In September it is strictly forbidden to severely prune hedges and bushes. Anyone who does not adhere to them faces a fine of several thousand euros. Since this nationwide time frame may be extended by the individual countries, you should find out about the legal situation that applies to you.
also read
- When are hedges and trees allowed? - A look at the Federal Nature Conservation Act
- Winter hard purslane - tasty vitamin donor in the cold season
- Cutting bushes in autumn - tips and tricks
Which trees and pruning measures are affected?
"It is forbidden [...] trees, [...], hedges, living fences, bushes and other trees in the period from 1. March to 30th September cut off, put on the stick, or disposed of; Gentle shape and care cuts are permitted to remove the growth of plants or to keep trees healthy ”, is the wording of the legal text.
Specifically, this means: During the period mentioned, only annual wood may be cut back in order to keep the plants in shape. Cutting back into perennial wood or removing entire trees is not permitted.
The regulation explicitly applies to all types of woody plants:
- Shrubs and bushes of all kinds of plants
- Bamboo, reeds and other reeds
- Topiary hedges
- Ornamental trees
- Trees
Please note that it is not only permitted, but even compulsory, to cut back hedges and bushes so that they do not grow into sidewalks or carriageways.
Why is it allowed between 1. March and 30. September not be cut?
It is not for nothing that the legislature prescribes these strict rules: They serve the purpose of nature conservation, in particular the protection of small animals that nest in trees and seek protection. In the spring, many species begin to build nests and nest holes in hedges, trees and shrubs. They need the protected environment in order to raise their young undisturbed. If they are disturbed by pruning measures in summer, they may orphan their brood.
That is why you should also pay attention to your animal roommates in the garden when pruning and, if in doubt, they should Hedge trimmer(€ 77.00 at Amazon *) better to leave in the tool shed. Overgrown shrubs have not harmed anyone, but a loss of biodiversity through encroachment on nature can have serious consequences for all of us.
