Summer brings long days, warmer weather, and fast-growing greenery — including your hedges. You’re not alone in wondering whether now is the right time to trim those unruly hedges. Gardeners across Redhill and Reigate often ask, “Is it safe or legal to cut hedges in summer?” In this guide, we break down what you can and can’t do, which hedges respond best to summer trimming, and how to keep your garden looking sharp — without risking wildlife or the health of your plants.
Yes — but with caution.
While summer hedge cutting is possible, it comes with important considerations, especially regarding nesting birds and the health of your plants. Many UK bird species are in their nesting season from March to August. Under the Wildlife and Countryside Act 1981, intentionally damaging or destroying an active bird’s nest is illegal.
This doesn’t mean you can’t trim your hedge in summer, but you must check for active nests first.
If there are no birds nesting in your hedge, a light summer trim is not only legal but can also be beneficial.
Certain hedges respond particularly well to light summer cuts, especially if you want to maintain their shape during peak growing months.
In Redhill and Reigate, some of the most common hedges we work on include privet, which is ideal for light shaping in June and July. Leylandii, known for fast growth, often needs tidying in early summer. Box hedges clip beautifully during warmer months and maintain neat garden borders. Beech can be trimmed in summer to control wayward branches, though it is usually shaped in winter. Lastly, yew hedges are tolerant of summer trimming and ideal for more formal gardens. If you’re unsure what hedge you have or when to cut it, Arboright offers free local surveys and professional advice.
Should You Hire a Professional?
DIY ISNT ALWAYS THE RIGHT OPTION
While light hedge shaping may seem manageable, hiring professionals has clear benefits. Hedges that require ladder work or border public roads pose safety risks. Professionals can conduct nest inspections, properly shape hedges, clear green waste, and ensure full compliance with regulations. At Arboright, our Redhill and Reigate-based team uses expert tools and techniques to deliver clean, sharp results that enhance your garden without disrupting the surrounding environment.
Step by step guide
In the Redhill and Reigate area, homeowners tend to schedule hedge cutting between late May and July. This ensures gardens are neat before summer events and family gatherings. Whether preparing to host friends or simply keeping your garden sharp, this is a key window for hedge maintenance. We regularly service gardens in areas like Earlswood, Meadvale, South Park, and Betchworth.
When done correctly, trimming hedges in summer keeps your garden looking sharp and encourages healthy growth. For homeowners across Redhill, Reigate, and the wider Surrey area, early summer is the perfect time for shaping, tidying, and controlling rapid growth.
Contact Arboright
If you’re based in Surrey or the surrounding areas and are considering hedge cutting call us on 01737 309066 or email info@arboright-ts.co.uk. We’ll assess your situation, check permissions, and carry out any work to the highest standard—legally and safely.
Protect your property. Stay within the law. And trust Arboright to get the job done right.
