Gardening expert Alan Titchmarsh is urging gardeners to complete a ‘simple’ task before you are no longer allowed to do it
Alan Titchmarsh (Photo by Alan Chapman/Dave Benett/Getty Images)(Image: Getty)
Gardeners, take note. They are being told to pick up their shears now, as Alan Titchmarsh says it’s the “perfect time” to complete a straightforward yet “vital” garden task.
In a recent TikTok clip, the horticultural expert outlined why late winter is an optimal period for trimming deciduous hedges before birds start nesting. He noted that hedges which shed their leaves can be safely pruned at present because “the birds haven’t quite started nesting yet and that’s vital”.
However, once nesting season commences, he cautioned that gardeners should “stay away” to prevent disturbing wildlife. The RSPB states that the principal bird nesting season spans from March through to August, and recommends checking thoroughly for active nests before undertaking any hedge maintenance.
Under the UK Government’s Wildlife and Countryside Act 1981, it is deemed an offence to deliberately damage or destroy an active nest. Titchmarsh added that evergreen hedges need a markedly different strategy, pointing out that yew is best trimmed in September or October after its growth period has concluded.
Get your shears at the ready(Image: Halfpoint Images via Getty Images)
Cutting at the appropriate time helps hedges remain “crisp” throughout winter and into the spring months when growth begins again, reports the Express. Regarding conditions to steer clear of when completing this job, he recommended avoiding wet weather, especially with box hedging. The Royal Horticultural Society states that box blight spreads more readily in damp conditions, with fungal spores transferred by water on foliage and tools.
Titchmarsh cautions that frost days should also be avoided, as freshly cut stems can be harmed by the freezing temperatures. The RHS clarifies that pruning at the right time promotes healthy regrowth, enhances air circulation and light penetration, and minimises the risk of disease.
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Safety is another crucial factor, the gardening expert emphasised, describing hedge trimmers as “very, very sharp tools”. He advises wearing protective gear such as gloves, eye protection and ear defenders, cautioning that even small flying debris can lead to a visit to A&E.
Pruning might appear like a straightforward task, but specialists assert it plays a critical role in plant health and garden aesthetics. Done properly and at the appropriate time, it keeps hedges dense, neat and flourishing well into the growing season – but be mindful of nests.
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