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Laurel hedges are a popular choice for creating lush, green privacy screens and borders in gardens. When they mature, they can become overgrown or uneven, prompting the need for reshaping. Proper pruning is essential to maintain their health and aesthetic appeal without causing harm.
Understanding Your Laurel Hedge
Before starting any reshaping, it’s important to understand the growth habits of laurel. They are evergreen shrubs that can grow quite tall and wide. They respond well to pruning, but improper cuts can stress the plant or lead to disease.
Tools and Timing
- Sharp pruning shears or hedge trimmers
- Loppers for thicker branches
- Protective gloves and eyewear
- Timing: late winter or early spring before new growth begins
Step-by-Step Reshaping Guide
1. Assess the Hedge
Inspect the hedge for dead, damaged, or diseased branches. Identify areas that need thinning or shaping to achieve your desired form.
2. Remove Dead and Diseased Wood
Start by cutting out any dead or diseased branches at their base. Dispose of these properly to prevent the spread of disease.
3. Thinning and Shaping
To keep the hedge healthy, selectively remove some of the older, thicker branches inside the hedge to improve air circulation. Trim the top and sides to your desired shape, maintaining a slightly tapered profile for good light penetration.
4. Cutting Technique
Make clean cuts at a 45-degree angle just above a leaf node or bud facing outward. This encourages outward growth and maintains a natural, full appearance.
Tips for Healthy Reshaping
- Do not cut more than one-third of the hedge at a time to avoid stress.
- Always use sharp tools to make clean cuts.
- Avoid pruning in late summer or fall, which can stimulate new growth vulnerable to winter damage.
- Water and mulch after pruning to support recovery.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Shearing the hedge into a perfect box, which can damage the plant’s natural form.
- Removing too much at once, leading to stress or dieback.
- Pruning during the wrong season, risking poor recovery or disease.
With proper technique and timing, your mature laurel hedge can be reshaped to enhance its beauty and health. Regular maintenance ensures a vibrant, attractive boundary that lasts for years to come.