Monty Don has warned gardeners to avoid trimming hedges until late summer, emphasizing that early cutting can endanger nesting birds. The gardening expert stressed that spring, particularly April, is the worst time for hedge pruning because young birds remain in nests.
Why Timing Matters for Birds
Many UK birds, including robins, house sparrows, blackbirds, and wrens, nest in hedges during summer. Trimming hedges too early can destroy nests or harm fledglings. Don previously stated on X: “The best times for birds are winter months and late summer when all are fully fledged and left nests.” For summer, this typically means late August.
Legal Protections for Nesting Birds
The Royal Horticultural Society (RHS) emphasizes that disturbing nesting birds is illegal under the Wildlife & Countryside Act 1981. It states: “Before undertaking work on hedges, check that there are no nesting birds in the hedge, as it is an offence … to damage or destroy the nest of any wild bird while it is in use or being built.”
Maintaining Hedge Health
The RHS acknowledges that hedges require regular trimming to stay dense and neat. Hand-held shears suit smaller hedges, while larger ones may need powered trimmers—corded electric, battery-powered, or petrol. Weight is an important factor when choosing a trimmer for extensive hedging.
Monty Don’s Gardening Legacy
Monty Don began his television career in 1989 with a gardening slot on This Morning. He has authored over 25 books since 1990 and became the main presenter of BBC’s Gardeners’ World in 2003. He also created and fronted series like Monty Don’s Rhineland Gardens (2026).
