Pruning frequency is determined by the plant species. Generally, for most cedar hedges, annual pruning is recommended. However, fast-growing hedges such as deciduous hedges may require two annual trimmings. For slow-growing hedges, trimming every other year may be adequate.

Ideally, this should happen every year between June 20 and August 1. However, it can be pruned earlier or later, from May to early October, without significantly harming the hedge.

The pruning method depends on the type of hedge. For most hedges, it is recommended to use electric or gas pruning shears. Start by trimming the sides of the hedge, maintaining a uniform shape. Then, shape the top, making sure it is slightly narrower than the base to ensure adequate light diffusion. This also helps remove snow or prevent snow accumulation, reducing the potential risk of future collapse. This is especially true for our hedges in Quebec.

The cost depends on several factors, including the size of the hedge (height, width), how often it's cut (if it's been neglected, there will be a lot of readjustment to do and it will take longer), any obstacles, such as a swimming pool or objects that could hinder the work, bee or wasp nests ($50 to remove them), as well as the time required to complete the service. Thanks to these characteristics, our experts are able to offer you an exceptional price.

If the hedge is yours, it's up to you to maintain it. If it's a shared hedge, each neighbor is responsible for their own maintenance. If branches of your hedge overhang your neighbor's property, they can ask you to trim them, but they don't have the right to do it themselves. That said, it's always best to resolve this conflict amicably.

This is possible within three years of neglect, but it can have consequences, and it will take several years for it to fully recover. If the hedge has been neglected for several years, the cedar will naturalize, becoming less dense, large, and cumbersome. At this stage, there are few ways to improve its condition, but it will never be able to reach an aesthetically perfect state without starting over (this does not mean that it is unhealthy). Think of bonsai, miniature trees that are pruned to preserve their tiny features. Once neglected, nature takes over, and trees in the wild are large and majestic.