Proper trimming and pruning keeps your hedges healthy and looking great. The removal of dead pieces allows more sunlight to reach healthy limbs, which encourages growth and minimizes problems with disease.

For newly-planted hedges, it's a good idea to wait at least twelve months to begin trimming them. Always wait until the right time of year to trim the dead growth from your hedges.

It's important to trim them after they bloom--if the hedge blooms in spring, trim them late summer. If you have non-blooming hedges, wait until after the bulbs spring the new leaves. Here are some tips and tools to make this an easy do-it-yourself project.