Q.Beech Hedge
A large part of an old beech hedge was removed by mistake. It has been replanted but after 5 years it is struggling to get to any height. We also lost all the wildlife, particularly the birds when the mature hedge was removed. How can we get a big healthy hedge back and how long might it be expected to take?
Given that your beech is struggling to grow, I would actually recommend a hard pruning/renovation, which beeches respond well to. It can all be reduced by as much as 50 percent in height and width in a single cut. It will take a few years to be restored to its former glory but you should have a healthier more vigorous hedge. For more information, please visit the following link:
https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/ornamental/shrubs/shgen/rejuvenation-pruning-tips.htm
https://extension.psu.edu/plants/green-industry/news/2012/hacking-whacking-dealing-with-overgrown-shrubs
