Hedging Tools and Essentials

How to choose hedging necessities

Products noted as peat-free or sustainably produced, including the incrediPeatFree Compost and RocketGro Tree and Shrub Compost, carry that information on their individual pages. Choosing peat-free growing media is a straightforward way to reduce the environmental impact of your garden. The FAQs below cover what you need to plant a new hedge, how often to trim and how to feed established plants.

What do I need to plant a hedge?

To plant a hedge successfully, you need a spade, mycorrhizal fungi to encourage root establishment, peat-free compost or a soil improver to incorporate into the planting hole, and tree guards or rabbit protection where deer or rabbits are present. Mark a straight planting line with border edging or a taut string before you begin.

How often should I trim my hedge?

You should trim most hedges once in late spring after the first flush of growth, and a second time late in summer. Fast-growing species may need a third cut to stay tidy. Avoid trimming during peak nesting season (broadly March to August) to protect nesting birds and avoid destroying wildlife habitats.

What is the best hedge trimmer for a home garden?

The best hedge trimmer for a home garden is liable to be a cordless trimmer, which offers useful reach without the restriction of a cable. Telescopic models extend reach for taller or wider hedges without the need for steps. With manual shears, you can be more precise on formal hedges or in situations where powered tools would remove too much growth at once.

Do I need to feed my hedge?

It’s not an absolute necessity to feed a hedge, but feeding once a year in spring supports healthy growth and speeds establishment, particularly in the first three years after planting. Apply a balanced slow-release fertiliser around the base of the plants, keeping it clear of stems, and water in during dry conditions.