The
Leyland cypress (x Cupressocyparis leylandii)
is widely used as a quick growing hedge or screen. If not
pruned correctly in the early stages it can quickly get out
of hand.
Topping and trimming taller hedges can be difficult and expensive, as well as shading gardens and drying the soil.
Pruning young hedges
In the first year trim back overlong sideshoots at the start of the growing season in April. Trim the sides lightly in late July.
In the second year the sides can be trimmed again to encourage denser growth and to leave a neat appearance over the winter.
In subsequent years continue to trim the sides each year leaving the leading shoot untouched until the desired height has been reached.
Once the desired height is reached, in the following spring shorten the leading shoots back 15cm (6in) below the required height. The new growth will make up the difference and the top will begin to fill in.
The top and sides will need to be trimmed up to three times a year in the growing season, keeping the hedge to an inverted wedge shape - or flat-topped A - with the widest point at the base. Otherwise the base of the plants can become bare.
Topping and regular trimming of the sides should prevent trees from becoming increasingly large.
Overgrown hedges
With its rapid growth a Leyland cypress hedge can soon become overgrown if not maintained at the required height. Healthy plants will usually respond well to a reduction of up to one-third of the height. This is best carried out in April as the new growth is about to begin.
Taking too much off of the top can result in a bare, flat-topped hedge, or result in the death of older or less vigorous plants. If a reduction in the width is required care needs to be taken not to cut back into older leafless growths, as new growth will not appear from bare wood.
Further information
Hedges and nesting birds
When undertaking work on garden hedges check that there are no birds nesting as it is an offence under the Wildlife & Countryside Act 1981 to damage or destroy the nest of any wild bird while it is in use or being built.