Can You Cut Hedges in April and May?
Nesting Season Is Here: Before You Trim That Hedge…
Spring has arrived, gardens are coming back to life… and so is wildlife.
From March through to September, it’s officially bird nesting season in the UK. During this time, hedges, trees and shrubs can quickly become home to nesting birds – often hidden from view.
If you’re planning a garden tidy-up, it’s worth knowing what you can safely do.
Why nesting season matters
Birds frequently nest deep inside hedges and dense foliage, making them difficult to spot. Disturbing an active nest can harm wildlife and is protected under UK law.
This is why extra care is essential when carrying out any tree or hedge work during these months.
Can you still cut hedges and trees?
In many cases, yes.
Nesting season doesn’t mean all work must stop, but it does mean it must be approached carefully. Some maintenance can still go ahead safely, provided proper checks are carried out beforehand.
How professionals manage it
This is where experienced companies such as Browns Tree Surgery play an important role.
Before starting any work, thorough inspections are carried out to check for signs of nesting birds or other wildlife. This includes looking for hidden nests and monitoring bird activity in the surrounding area.
Checks don’t stop once the job begins. They continue throughout the work to ensure nothing is disturbed.
If a nest is found, work is paused and rescheduled until the birds have safely fledged.

Why expert advice matters
At this time of year, what looks like a straightforward hedge trim can be more complex than it appears.
Using a professional ensures:
- Wildlife is protected
- Work is carried out responsibly and within guidelines
- You get clear advice on what can be done now and what should wait
Call Browns Tree Solutions on 01908 773 777 or email info@brownstreesolutions.co.uk
Browns Tree Solutions
A seasonal reminder
Spring is a busy time for gardens, but it’s also one of the most important periods for local wildlife.
Taking a little extra care now helps protect birds during nesting season, while still allowing your garden to be maintained safely and responsibly.
- £2000 RAISED BY LOCAL CHOIR
Local choir Glee Club have been busy raising an incredible £2,000 for local dementia charity Tibbs Dementia Foundation. The cheque presentation took place on the 11 August… Read more: £2000 RAISED BY LOCAL CHOIR - Electric cars, e-bikes and energy savings: Free event comes to Leighton Buzzard
Residents and local businesses can get behind the wheel of an electric car, explore e-bikes and discover ways to cut energy bills at a free green living event in Leighton… Read more: Electric cars, e-bikes and energy savings: Free event comes to Leighton Buzzard - September Edition is Out Now
It’s the September edition of Bee Local Magazine, your guide to all things Leighton Buzzard. Here are some highlights and quick links to what’s inside this edition.… Read more: September Edition is Out Now - Heat Moves Steam Gala to New Date
Risks of Dry Conditions Change Historial date Unfortunately, because of the excessive dry weather, the recent ban on steam locomotive operations at Leighton Buzzard Narrow Gauge Railway… Read more: Heat Moves Steam Gala to New Date - What’s on In September
Finding the best of what’s on near you – a little something for everyone. This forms part of the What’s On Guide Also see the biggest annual… Read more: What’s on In September






