Cutting beech hedge: timing & procedure

Beech hedges can be a real eye-catcher in the garden. But when and how are they cut correctly? We have tips ready for you.

Beech hedges are among the most popular hedges in Germany and are very decorative, especially in summer. For beech hedges, either red beeches (Fagus sylvatica) or hornbeam (Carpinus betulus), which look very similar. In order for beech hedges to keep their shape, you should use a saw or scissors at least once a year. We'll show you the best time to cut and how to make the cut.

When do you cut beech hedges?

In Germany there are strict rules as to when you can prune your hedge more strongly. The reason for this is the Federal Nature Conservation Act, which temporarily prohibits pruning to protect native birds.

When is it allowed to cut beech hedges?

A radical pruning of your beech hedge can therefore only be carried out in the period from October up to and including February, as otherwise native birds could be disturbed during the breeding season. You should definitely avoid pruning from February to September. But don't worry: small and superficial work on the hedge is still allowed as long as you proceed very carefully and check the hedge for birds in advance. For the further cut, the time after the 24. June, as the main breeding season for most birds is over and the plant can still grow back for some time.

Radically cut hornbeam hedge

In spring you should cut back more of your beech hedge every year. At this point, a radical pruning of the plant doesn't matter much. Due to nature conservation, only perform the cut from autumn to spring, for this you should cut back about half of the hedge volume at this time. At this point, it is also worth making a topiary so that the hedge does not grow in all directions.

Cut beech hedges in 2 steps

In the course of the year, it is worth pruning beech hedges several times 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 thin out the hedge. Depending on your taste, the beech hedge can be cut directly into shape: A shape that becomes more pointed towards the top is ideal. This way, all parts of the plant get enough light.
2. From the end of June you can make another, but only light, cut on the outside of the hedge. This cut serves to branch the hedge further and ensures a compact growth habit. Be careful though: birds can still be in your beech hedge after June.

These products are ideal for cutting your shrubs, hedges and trees:

• Felco secateurs: Manual pruning, pruning and pruning shears recommended for all types of cutting. In addition to plastic-coated handles, it has a precision adjustment system for the blade and anvil blade.
• Felco fruit tree and secateurs: Robust fruit tree and secateurs with wire cutter, sap groove and micrometer adjustment.
• Gardena telescopic arm scissors: Practical secateurs for effortless cutting of tall trees and dense shrubs from the ground.

Some maintenance is needed to keep your hedges nice and green and you. In our special article you will find helpful tips on Fertilizing hedges.