Hedges are used widely to enhance property aesthetics, protect properties from the wind and even increase privacy. When looked after well, they stay vibrant throughout the year-round, provide sanctuary for wildlife and even can increase the value of your property.
However, overgrown hedges can make your property look ‘unkempt’. This is why hedge-owners need to take the challenge of hedge cutting cork and hedge trimming every year.
Does the prospect of hedge cutting glanmire look overwhelming? Don’t bother! We are here to make things a bit easier and safer! In this blog, we will answer some common queries often posted by hedge owners. After going through them you will have a fair idea about hedge cutting cork and related laws.
Here we go!
When is the best time for hedge cutting glanmire?
Well, the best time to cut hedges depends on whether they are deciduous or evergreen or, the speed of their growth. As a thumb rule, you need to choose a time to ensure no hedge is cut when birds are nesting in it. Going by this, any time excluding the period from March to August ( the usual nesting season for birds) is considered the best time to cut garden hedges in Ireland.
How many times a year should a hedge be cut?
This again depends on the type of hedge; whether you have an informal, super formal, slow or fast-growing hedge. As a minimum, you should cut all hedges at least twice a year. If you have a super formal hedge, you may even cut it five or six times a year.
How important is the shape of a hedge?
The shape of a hedge is incredibly important if you consider the health of your hedgerow. For your garden, we would recommend you to camber your hedge shape to make it a touch narrower at the top, as compared to the bottom. This is particularly useful for larger hedges. If a ‘batter’ is not provided to the hedge, its bottom will end up receiving less sunlight and it will struggle for growth. You will also end up with a lot of growth on the top and a ‘weak’ hedge at the bottom. In the winter, if snow builds upon the top of the hedge, the weight may even break off the branches at the edges. A camber or batter would help the snow slide off quickly before it can build up at the top of the hedge.
What are the laws associated with hedge cutting cork in Ireland?
Before you get ready for your hedge cutting glanmire work, you should be aware of the relevant portions of the following rules –
A. The Wildlife and Countryside Act 1981
Section 1 of this Act considers it an offence to destroy or damage a wild bird’s nest intentionally, while it is in use or being built. Usually, most birds nest between March and August in Ireland. Hence, you should be very careful if you need to cut/trim your hedges during this period. We would advise you to avoid cutting the hedges during the breeding season. If it is unavoidable, remember it is a legal requirement to check for active nests before starting the hedge cutting activity.
B. Anti-Social Behaviour Act 2003
This Act defines any hedge over 2m or 6¾ft (approx.) as a ‘high hedge’. It considers maintaining a high hedge that affects the enjoyment of a garden or home as a kind of anti-social behaviour. This is because such hedges may potentially obscure a view, obstruct light or may overbear into an adjoining neighbour property. This legislation empowers an aggrieved neighbour to take appropriate steps to resolve the situation, without involving lawyers. If any further action is required, the local council may also be involved.