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Native Hedge

Hi

I planted a native hedge about two years ago,  I cut it back about this time last year to encourage nice thick growth from the bottom and  it is doing well.  The hedge consists of wild cherry, crab apple, blackthorn, hawthorn and dogwood. 

Should I prune it back again this year? If I don't will I get blossom?  Is there a best time of year to prune back? Is it ok to prune at end of the year.

Advice much appreciated. image

 

 

Posts

  • fidgetbonesfidgetbones Posts: 17,614

    If it is now bushy, I would let it grow to the height you require. It may take a few years to flower. If the shoots are now spindly, I would cut back by half.

    Do it soon, as the birds will be looking for nesting sites soon.

  • Thanks Fidgetbones,  I will cut it back again at the weekend, weather permitting!  If it may take a few years to flower, I will be patient and wait until it is bushier. 

  • Jim MacdJim Macd Posts: 750

    I agree with fb. I would expect it to take a good few years to flower. Bear in mind also that most of those will flower on 2yr old wood. The dogwood could well surprise you though. Mine flowered twice last year.

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