Well-maintained hedges create privacy, define garden spaces, and add structural beauty to any Melbourne property. At Jordan’s Gardening Services, we’ve gathered our expertise to bring you this essential guide to hedge trimming in Melbourne.

Perfect Timing: When to Trim in Melbourne’s Climate

Melbourne’s distinctive climate requires strategic timing for hedge maintenance:

Spring (September-November)

• Ideal for major reshaping as plants enter active growth
• Light trimming to maintain shape after spring growth spurts
• Always check for nesting birds before trimming

Summer (December-February)

• Best for maintenance trims on established hedges
• Trim in early morning or evening during hot periods
• Increase watering after summer trimming

Autumn (March-May)

• Perfect for formative pruning before winter dormancy
• Allow slightly fuller growth to protect against frost

Winter (June-August)

• Major renovation pruning of deciduous hedges
• Minimal trimming of evergreens except for damage removal

Melbourne’s Top Hedge Plants & Their Specific Needs

Native Favorites

1. Lilly Pilly (Syzygium species)
   • Trim 2-3 times annually, with main trim in late spring
   • Watch for psyllid insect damage – a common Melbourne issue

2. Westringia (Coastal Rosemary)

1. Drought-tolerant and perfect for Melbourne’s water restrictions
2. Trim after flowering to encourage density

Reliable Exotics

1. Pittosporum
   • Ideal for Melbourne’s variable conditions
   • Trim in spring and late summer for dense growth

1. Viburnum
   • Trim after flowering for best results
   • Can handle Melbourne’s heavier clay soils

1. Photinia ‘Red Robin’
   • Time trims to enhance red foliage display
   • Particularly suited to Melbourne’s full-sun positions
2. Murraya (Orange Jessamine)
   • Trim after flowering to maintain fragrant blooms
   • Perfect for smaller Melbourne gardens and courtyards

Professional Techniques from Jordan’s Gardening Service

Tools for the Job

• Hand Pruners: For selective trimming and detail work
• Hedge Shears: For formal hedges requiring precise lines
• Electric or Petrol Trimmers: For larger established hedges

Achieving the Perfect Shape

1. Top-Narrower-Than-Base Rule
   • Maintain a slight taper with the base wider than the top
   • Ensures lower branches receive adequate sunlight
2. Straight Line Technique
   • Use string lines for perfectly straight edges
   • Cut in an upward sweeping motion for clean cuts

Renovation of Neglected Hedges

• Remove no more than one-third of growth in any season
• Spread major renovation over 2-3 years
• Best timing: Late winter for deciduous hedges, early spring for evergreens

Common Melbourne Hedge Problems & Solutions

Pest Management

• Lilly Pilly Psyllid: Regular trimming of new growth helps manage infestations
• Scale Insects: Common in Melbourne’s urban gardens, treat with horticultural oil

Disease Prevention

• Fungal Issues: Prevalent during Melbourne’s damp periods
• Prevention: Always trim on dry days and ensure good air circulation

Environmental Considerations

• Mulch around hedge bases to retain moisture
• Consider drip irrigation for water efficiency during water restrictions
• Check for nesting birds before trimming (particularly in spring)

When to Call the Professionals

While many homeowners enjoy maintaining their hedges, professional help is essential for:

• Hedges taller than 2 meters requiring ladder work
• Renovating severely neglected hedges
• Precision trimming of formal or heritage hedges
• Initial establishment and shaping of new hedges

At Jordan’s Gardening Services, we specialize in professional hedge maintenance throughout Melbourne. Our experienced team has the knowledge, tools, and passion to keep your hedges looking their absolute best year-round.

Need professional help with your Melbourne hedges? Contact Jordan’s Gardening Service  for a free consultation. Our hedge trimming services include clean-up and green waste removal, leaving your garden pristine.