Hedgecutting Bedfordshire
Leylandii trees (also known as Leyland Cypress) are a popular choice for hedging across the UK, thanks to their fast growth and dense evergreen foliage. But while they make excellent privacy screens, they can become unmanageable if not looked after properly. Whether you’re thinking about planting a row or battling an overgrown hedge, here are 7 important facts you should know about Leylandii.
1. Leylandii Grow Incredibly Fast
Leylandii can grow up to 3 feet (90cm) per year under ideal conditions. That’s great for privacy—but without regular trimming, they can quickly tower over fences and become a neighbourhood nuisance. It’s not uncommon to see hedges reaching 20 feet or more when left unchecked.
2. You Should Trim Them Twice a Year
To keep Leylandii looking tidy and under control, we recommend trimming twice a year—ideally in late spring (May–June) and again in late summer or early autumn (August–September). This keeps their shape tight and prevents them from growing out of bounds.
Pro Tip:
Avoid trimming in frosty or very hot weather, as this can stress the tree. And always make sure there are no nesting birds before cutting during spring and summer.
3. There Are Legal Height Restrictions
Did you know that in the UK, Leylandii hedges can be subject to legal complaints if they exceed 2 metres in height and block light to a neighbour’s property? Councils can get involved under the Anti-Social Behaviour Act 2003, so it pays to keep your hedge in check.
4. They Make Great Windbreaks
One of the reasons Leylandii are so popular in open rural areas is because they form excellent windbreaks. Their thick, evergreen foliage provides year-round protection from harsh winds—ideal for shielding gardens, patios, and even livestock.
5. They Can Become Dangerous If Left Untouched
Leylandii trees that haven’t been trimmed for several years can become top-heavy, unstable, and prone to splitting during storms. Once they’re too tall, it becomes more expensive (and sometimes risky) to reduce them safely. If your Leylandii are out of control, professional tree reduction or removal may be your best option.
6. You Can Train Leylandii as a Formal Hedge
With the right care from day one, Leylandii can form a smart, formal hedge. Start trimming early (from the first year of planting) to encourage dense growth, and never cut back into old wood—unlike some other species, Leylandii don’t regrow from bare wood.
7. Professional Maintenance Is Often the Best Solution
Keeping a Leylandii hedge healthy and attractive takes proper tools, timing, and know-how. At Original Tree Services, we offer:
- Regular hedge trimming packages
- Height reduction and reshaping
- Safe removal of overgrown or problem hedges
- Expert advice on the best time to cut Leylandii in your garden
Need Help with Leylandii?
If your Leylandii hedge is getting out of hand, or you’re not sure when to trim, give us a call. We’re local experts in hedge trimming and tree maintenance, and we’ll keep your garden looking its best all year round.
📞 01234 924964
🌐 www.originaltreeservices.co.uk
