How to Trim Cedar Hedges

Hedges can provide privacy and will add an attractive appeal to a yard. However, if a hedge is not trimmed, it can be an eyesore. Trim a cedar hedge in the fall, just before they become dormant.

Things You'll Need

• Hedge shears
• Pruning shears
• Stakes
• Mallet
• String

Instructions

1. Cut any long branches sticking out with the pruning shears.

2. Pound stakes into the ground using the mallet. Put one stake near each corner of the hedge.

3. Tie a string to one stake. Tie the other end of the string to the second stake, pulling the string tight. Tie a second string to the stakes, farther up. Do the same thing on the other side of the hedge. The strings will be your guide.

4. Trim the top of the shed using the hedge shears. Keep inside the strings but don't cut the hedge too short.

5. Trim down the sides of the hedge while keeping inside the string. Finish up by trimming the ends of the hedge.

Tips & Warnings

• In the winter, shovel the snow off the top of the hedge. Heavy snow can damage cedar hedges.