Monty Don, the beloved gardening expert and lead presenter of BBC's Gardeners' World, has issued a clear directive for gardeners: wait until late summer to prune hedges. The reason is to protect nesting birds, as many UK species use hedges for shelter during the breeding season.
Why Late Summer Is the Safest Time
Don explained that spring, particularly April, is the worst time to cut hedges because birds are still raising their young. On social media platform X, he stated: 'April is the very worst time to cut hedges.' He added that the safest periods are winter months and late summer, when all chicks have fledged and left the nests. In practice, late August is the ideal summer window for trimming.
The Royal Horticultural Society (RHS) backs this advice, noting that it is illegal to disturb nesting birds under the Wildlife & Countryside Act 1981. The RHS warns: '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.'
Birds at Risk and Legal Consequences
Common UK birds that nest in hedges include robins, house sparrows, blackbirds, and wrens. Cutting hedges too early can destroy nests or cause chicks to be abandoned. Offenders can face fines or prosecution under the 1981 Act.
Don's advice aligns with broader conservation efforts. He regularly shares gardening tips via social media, drawing from his own experience at his Herefordshire garden.
Practical Pruning Tips from the RHS
The RHS acknowledges that hedges need regular trimming to stay dense and neat. For small hedges, hand-held shears suffice, but for larger hedges, powered trimmers (corded electric, battery, or petrol) are recommended. Weight is a key factor when choosing a trimmer for extensive work.
Don's career began in 1989 with a gardening segment on ITV's This Morning. He has since authored over 25 books and taken over as lead presenter of Gardeners' World in 2003 at Alan Titchmarsh's suggestion. His latest series, Monty Don's Rhineland Gardens, aired in 2026.
Additional Summer Gardening Advice
In related guidance, Don has also recommended watering plants at two key times during the day to help them thrive in summer heat. He suggests early morning and late evening to reduce evaporation and ensure deep soil penetration.
