Hedges start looking a little untidy in June and would greatly benefit from a trim, but it is essential to fertilise it before doing any cutting to ensure it stays looking its best. In early summer, hedges are in their peak growing season which means any nutrients and energy stored in the soil is quickly being absorbed to produce lush green foliage.
If you have not fertilised your hedge yet this year then cutting it now will greatly weaken it and cause patchier thinned out foliage as it will struggle to grow. It also means the hedge will have fewer resources to recover after being cut, making it more vulnerable to stress, leaf drop, and drying out, especially during the summer heat.
However, the gardening experts at Your Garden have shared keeping a garden hedge “lush and healthy” is very easy as long as you use the right fertiliser.
They said: “Established hedges need regular nutrient replenishment to maintain healthy growth and vibrant foliage.
“Apply a balanced fertiliser in spring or early summer, following the instructions on the label for proper application rates. Organic fertilisers, such as compost or well-rotted manure, are excellent choices for those gardening sustainably.”
Using a organic feed like manure tends to be best in summer as they are slow releasing and will feed the hedge over a few weeks instead of giving it a quick burst of energy.
This is best for the hedges overall health as quick fertilisers can be too potent and cause the foliage to go overly soft sappy growth that pests like to feed on.
Well-rotted manure or compost will encourage stronger foliage and also the roots grow deeper, which will also help keep a hedge hydrated for longer in summer.
However, if you want a easier general purpose fertiliser then look for 7-7-7 or 10-10-10 on the label as it means it has a balanced amount of the nutrients nitrogen, phosphorus and potassium that plants need to thrive.
How to fertilise a hedge before cutting it
It tends to be best to fertilise hedges in spring but it can also be done in mid to late June as well to support growth.
Do not feed hedged in July or August as the new growth will not have a chance to develop properly in the extreme weather.
To begin simply prepare the ground by removing weeds, grass or any leaves. Rake the soil t help loosen it up and stop it becoming compacted.
Then simply sprinkle your fertilise of choice around the base of the hedge. Make sure it is applied in a thin layer and leave a gap around the hedge to not smoother the plant.
If you are using manure make sure it is well-rotted as fresh manure can be too rich and potent which can burn hedge roots if you are not careful.
After applying the fertiliser, make sure to deeply water the ground to allow the nutrients to easily absorb into the soil.
Wait at least two weeks after feeding the hedge to allow the fertiliser to start working and avoid stressing the plant out.
If you take the time to prepare a hedge then it should look healthier, greener and lusher throughout the summer months.