TRIM YOUR EVERGREEN HEDGES

Hedges of yew, holly, hornbeam or beech should be cut now. Have secateurs available for over-thick stems. A powered cutter makes the job quicker but take care not to disturb late nesting birds. With yew, new growth is soft and easy to cut. But if trimmed to the same dimensions every year, it can develop a calloused surface. Take no action now. In winter, cut deep into the hedges so softer, green growth can develop in the spring.