Bushes and hedges can be such a nice addition to any property, creating beautiful lines and unique landscaping. But if they’re not maintained and trimmed, they can actually hurt your property value, making the whole place look run-down and unkempt. Here’s an informative guide to keeping your hedges looking healthy and manicured, including the best lawn equipment for the job. 

How to Professionally Trim Bushes Yourself

Tools of the Trade

Hedge trimmers are a must-have power tool when taking care of bushes of any kind. They come in three basic varieties found at any lawn equipment dealer: corded electric, battery-powered cordless, and gas-powered. The kind you use should depend on what you’re comfortable with and how much work you have to complete.

You should also invest in a pair of nice bypass hand pruners for small jobs or removing dead and damaged branches on the inside of your bushes. And don’t forget to wear safety glasses and gloves during this task to avoid any injuries.

Trade Technique

Moving the cutting bar of your trimmer in at a slow steady pace, begin trimming near the bottom, working your way up. Make sure to cut just a few inches at a time, making shallow passes with your trimmer. Otherwise, you may end up cutting way too much off at once. As you work your way up the sides of the bush or hedge, trim at an angle so that it’s thinner at the top and wider at the bottom. This allows sunlight to reach even the lowest branches and root system, keeping your hedges lush and green.

If you want to make the top of your bushes flat, hold your trimmer firmly so that it’s level. Then slowly move it from side to side, only cutting off a little at a time. Repeat as many times as needed to get your desired look.

For those who have long rows of hedges or bushes and want to make all of them the same height, it’s best to stretch a line so that it’s taut between two stakes on either end of your hedge at the desired height. This line can then be used as a guide to create a straight and level hedge all the way across. 

As you near the finished shape of your hedge, you should pause, setting your lawn equipment down. Using a rake or your hands, get the cut branches and leaves out. At this point, step back so that you can take note of any areas that were missed or that need an extra cut. And don’t forget to cut out any dead or damaged branches with pruners to keep your bushes healthy and lasting for years.

Is your property in need of some outdoor attention? If so, look no further than Southside Equipment Company, Milledgeville, GA’s garden and lawn equipment provider. No matter what your landscaping dreams are this spring and summer, they will put you on the right path with everything you need. Call them today at (478)452-5523 or visit them online for more information.