Can You Cut Hedges in April and May?

Leighton Buzzard Lifestyle

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.

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