Shaping box

Mature box hedges are best trimmed and shaped in August, when the new growth has become more hardy, the scorching weather of midsummer has passed and bird nesting season come to an end. A formal shape is a simple way to bring structure to the garden and can be acheived with the help of four bamboo canes. These are tied together to form a pyramid which is placed over the box plant to provide straight edges and guidelines. A pair of sharp, well lubricated shears are used for the cutting and any final tidying done with a sharp pair of secateurs.