What would you like to change?
Trim it: keep the size, tidy the growth.
If the hedge is already close to the height and width you want, a trim can bring the new growth back into line. Agree whether the quote covers the top, one face or both faces, and how we can reach each side.
A routine cut and a large reduction are not the same job. If keeping the screening matters, say so before anything is cut. Our hedge trimming and cutting service covers maintenance trims and larger reductions.
Reduce it: decide what can safely stay.
Height and width are different decisions. A hedge that can be lowered may not be able to come much further back at the sides without exposing bare wood. The species, condition and remaining green growth need checking first.
Most conifers do not regrow reliably from old, leafless wood; yew is a notable exception. A hard cut is not a promise that a bare face will turn green again. The RHS guidance on hedge renovation explains why conifers need a different approach from many other hedges.
We can discuss the amount to take off, the likely appearance afterwards and whether keeping the hedge is a sensible option. No photograph can guarantee that another hedge will respond in the same way.
See both photographs and the notes on this real hedge reduction.
Remove it: plan the boundary, not just the cutting.
If the hedge is no longer wanted, discuss hedge removal and the finish at ground level. Cutting away the hedge, grinding its bases and removing every root are different jobs. Nearby walls, drains, paving and machine access may limit what can be done.
Replacing it with fencing?
Tell us about both jobs together. The old hedge bases, new post positions, fence height and any period without screening need considering before the work is agreed. Garden fencing is a genuine Sharp Hedges service, quoted for the actual boundary.
Wanting grass or usable ground?
Explain the next use before agreeing stump grinding. The depth, grindings, remaining roots and further ground preparation matter. A cut stump or a cleared strip is not automatically ready for a new lawn.
Selects both services in the form. You can change them before sending.
Check before agreeing a date.
Confirm ownership of the boundary and permission for any access through a neighbour’s garden. Trees may need protection checks even when they form part of a hedge: use our protected-tree starting point and confirm the position with the relevant council.
Active birds’ nests must not be damaged or destroyed while in use or being built. Timing alone is not a substitute for checking the vegetation. See the RSPB’s nesting and hedge-cutting guidance.
Replacement fences have their own planning conditions, especially beside roads, at listed buildings or where local restrictions apply. Check the Planning Portal’s fence guidance and your council; this guide is not permission to start work.
A useful quote starts with the whole hedge.
Tell us your postcode, what you want changed and anything you want to retain. If it is easy and safe, add a wide photograph and a view of the route in. There is no need to climb, measure a tall hedge or identify it yourself.
Length, height, thickness, the amount being removed, access and agreed waste handling all affect the quote. Our quote comparison guide helps you check like for like.
Ask about trimming or reducing a hedge