How Much And When Should I Prune Old Hedge Stems Back?

Question

This hedge has been behind a 6 ft fence for 20 years. I want to regrow it into the 4ft stock netting that replaced it. How low can I prune it, and when?

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Answer 1

I can't quite make out which species that is, so I can't give the most accurate timing and cutting specifics. I will give you advice on the err side of caution.

Cutting is best done during dormancy, and cutting back by a third will be best, until we can determine the species.

https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/ornamental/shrubs/shgen