Common Hedge Problems & How to Fix Them

If you have hedges in your garden, you know how important they are for privacy, structure, and the overall look of your outdoor space. But keeping them in good shape isn’t always easy. Overgrown, patchy, or unhealthy hedges can quickly become an eyesore and a hassle to manage. At Browns Tree Solutions, we’ve been maintaining hedges for homeowners across Milton Keynes and the surrounding areas for over 25 years. In this post, we’ll cover some of the most common hedge problems and how our expert team can help you solve them.

1. Overgrown & Unruly Hedges

The Problem:
Hedges can quickly become overgrown, making your garden look untidy. Overgrowth can also lead to weak and unhealthy branches, making the hedge harder to manage over time.

The Solution:
Regular hedge trimming is key to keeping hedges in shape and preventing excessive growth. At Browns Tree Solutions, we provide professional hedge trimming services to ensure your hedges stay neat, healthy, and easy to manage all year round.

hedge Cutting and Trimming

2. Patchy or Sparse Growth

The Problem:
If your hedge has bare patches or areas that aren’t growing well, it can ruin the look of your garden. This can be caused by poor trimming techniques, lack of sunlight, or poor soil conditions.

The Solution:
Strategic pruning can help encourage new growth. Our team can also assess the soil and provide recommendations for improving hedge health, such as fertilisation or replanting if necessary.

hedge Cutting and Trimming

3. Hedge Pests & Diseases

The Problem:
Hedges can suffer from pests like aphids or diseases like powdery mildew, which can cause discolouration, thinning, or even hedge dieback.

The Solution:
Identifying and treating hedge pests and diseases early is essential. Our team can diagnose the issue and apply the right treatments to keep your hedges thriving.

hedge Cutting and Trimming
4. Uneven or Poorly Trimmed Hedges

The Problem:
Uneven or badly cut hedges can make your garden look messy. DIY hedge trimming can sometimes result in a hedge that looks worse than before.

The Solution:
Our expert arborists use professional tools and techniques to ensure your hedges are trimmed evenly, creating a polished and symmetrical look.

hedge Cutting and Trimming
5. Overhanging & Boundary Issues

The Problem:
Hedges that grow beyond their boundary can lead to neighbour disputes or even legal issues if they block pathways or overhang into public areas.

The Solution:
We offer careful and precise trimming to keep your hedges within their boundaries while maintaining a natural and healthy appearance.

hedge Cutting and Trimming
6. Reasons for Hedge Removal

Sometimes, trimming and maintenance aren’t enough, and hedge removal becomes necessary. Here are some common reasons why a hedge may need to be removed:

  • Disease or Pest Infestation – If a hedge is severely affected by disease or pests, removing it might be the best solution to prevent spreading to other plants.
  • Overgrowth Beyond Control – When a hedge has grown too large to be managed effectively or is encroaching on buildings, pathways, or neighbouring properties.
  • Structural Weakness – Some hedges develop weak or dying sections that cannot be revived, making removal the only option for safety and aesthetics.
  • Garden Redesign or Space Requirements – If homeowners want to change their landscape layout or require more space for other features such as patios, fences, or new plantings.
  • Blocked Light and Airflow – Overgrown hedges can block sunlight and airflow, impacting surrounding plants and creating damp conditions.
  • Legal or Boundary Disputes – If a hedge crosses property lines or causes disputes with neighbours, removal may be the simplest resolution.
  • Replacement with Alternative Screening – Some people opt for fences or different plants that provide easier long-term maintenance.

If you think your hedge might need removing, Browns Tree Solutions can provide professional advice and expert removal services. We ensure the process is handled safely, efficiently, and with minimal disruption to your garden.

hedge Cutting and Trimming
7. How Browns Tree Solutions Can Help
  • Experienced Team: With over 25 years in the industry, we know how to care for hedges of all types.
  • Professional Equipment: We use high-quality tools for precise and safe trimming.
  • Flexible Scheduling: Choose a one-off service or set up regular maintenance to keep your hedges in top condition.
  • Full Clean-Up We remove all hedge trimmings, leaving your garden tidy.
  • Expert Advice: We help you keep your hedges healthy between trims.
8. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

How often should I trim my hedge?
Most hedges benefit from trimming at least twice a year, but faster-growing varieties may need more frequent maintenance. We can advise on the best schedule for your specific hedge type.

Can you restore an overgrown hedge?
Yes! We specialise in reshaping and restoring overgrown hedges to bring them back to a neat and healthy state.

Do you remove hedge trimmings?
Yes, we always clean up after the job and can either bag up the trimmings for you or remove them entirely.

What areas do you cover?
We provide hedge maintenance services across Milton Keynes and surrounding areas, including Bedfordshire, Buckinghamshire, Northamptonshire, and Hertfordshire.

How do I book a hedge trimming service?
You can contact us today to arrange a free site survey and quotation. We’ll assess your hedge and provide expert recommendations tailored to your needs.

A well-maintained hedge enhances the look of your garden and provides privacy and structure. If you’re struggling with hedge problems, let the professionals at Browns Tree Solutions take care of it for you. Contact us today to schedule your hedge trimming service and keep your garden looking its best!.