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Best hedge trimmers for tall & thick hedges.

Best time to cut hedges

Hedges, shrubs and bushes can become unsightly if left to grow unhindered. To keep them in good shape, it's best to cut them early spring and late summer, when the bird nesting season has come to an end.

What type of hedge trimmer do you need?

If your hedges are cared for regularly and the branches are quite thin, lower powered trimmers should be suitable. But if your hedges or bushes are dense and difficult, more strength is needed, so you should go for a more powerful model.

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  1. A man using a 500W McGregor electric corded hedge trimmer to trim a hedge.

    Electric hedge trimmers

    Electric hedge trimmers are typically smaller and lighter than their cordless counterparts. They are ideally suited to smaller gardens where a mains socket is easily accessible.

    Why they're great:

    • Lightweight and affordable.
    • Less noisy than petrol-powered models.

    Best for: Small gardens.

  2. A woman using a cordless hedge trimmer to trim a hedge.

    Cordless hedge trimmers

    A cordless hedge trimmer is powered by a battery, allowing for greater flexibility of use. There's also no risk of cutting through a cable, so these can be safer than other models too.

    Why they’re great:

    • No cord to restrict your movement.
    • Easy to use and store.

    Best for: Medium gardens.

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  1. A man using a 550W Spear & Jackson corded pole hedge trimmer.

    Long reach hedge trimmers

    Also known as an extendable hedge trimmer, these have an extendable pole that allows you to reach up high. A long reach hedge trimmer might also feature a pivoting head for trimming across the top of hedges in some models.

    Why they’re great:

    • Can trim high hedges without requiring a ladder.
    • Flexible head can work at different angles.

    Best for: Tall hedges.

  2. Einhell 11cm Cordless Grass and Shrub Trimmer - 3.6V.

    Short reach hedge trimmers

    With a blade length of under 39cm, these standard hedge trimmers work well for use on small to medium bushes.

    Why they're great:

    • Suitable for intricate trimming or shaping.
    • Offer more control over area being trimmed.

    Best for: Regular trimming and shaping.

  3. Woman using a hedge shear to shape a box hedge.

    Grass and hedge shears

    Designed for detailing work, they're ideal if you're keen on creating hedge sculptures. Some models can be attached to a pole to give them more reach too.

    Why they're great:

    • Can be used for shaping hedges and shrubs.
    • Lightweight for enhanced comfort and control.

    Best for: Detail work.

Shop all hedge trimmers

Hedge trimmer blade length

The longer the blade, the more hedge you can cut at once, making it quicker and neater. If you have small hedges, blades under 50cm should be suitable, but for larger hedges it's best to go for blades longer than this.

0-39cm
40-49cm
50-59cm
60cm & over

Hedge trimmer features explained

Check out some other things you should consider before making your choice.

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  1. Power output

    Electric trimmers' power is measured in watts, ranging from 400w to 900w; cordless trimmers use volts, ranging from 18V to 36V and petrol trimmers use CCs, ranging from 20cc to 40cc.

    • Teeth spacing

      Teeth spacing relates to branch thickness - the more space between a blade's teeth, the thicker the branches it can cut. Spacing ranges from 15mm to 34mm.

      • Cable length

        If you're considering an electric trimmer, choose a model which offers enough cable to reach a household plug socket. If this isn't possible, an extension lead will come in useful.

        • Battery life

          Running time of cordless trimmers can vary between 30 to 75 minutes. When the battery does run out, many have quick charging abilities, so you can get back to work within an hour.

          • Weight

            You could be spending a lot of time carrying your trimmer, so make sure it's a weight you're comfortable with. Petrol trimmers are the heaviest, and electric trimmers the lightest.

            • 270 degree power handle

              Some types of hedge trimmer have a power handle that rotates 270 degrees. This allows you to comfortably hold down the handle no matter what position you hold the trimmer in.

              Hedge trimmer safety tips

              When you purchase a hedge trimmer, you should also select some basic safety gear, like head and eye protection, and garden gloves, to keep you safe during trimming.

              A man using a 230V Einhell corded hedge trimmer to trim a hedge.opens in new tab

              Four features for safe hedge trimming

              1. Hand guard - All blades come with a hand guard that prevents your hands from slipping onto the blade. They also protect them from being scratched by flying debris during use.
                 
              2. Dual safety switch - This is where you have to press and hold two power switches before the hedge trimmer will turn on. The blade automatically turns off if a single switch is released, keeping you safe if you slip or drop it.
                 
              3. Quick stop brake - A brake system ensures that once you stop using the trimmer, the blades will cease moving in moments, reducing the risk of accidental injury.
                 
              4. Anti-jamming system - This will either stop the blades immediately if they become jammed due to a blockage, or they will reverse the blade's direction so the blockage can be dislodged.
              Bosch Universal Hedge Cut 60 Corded Hedge Trimmer.

              Hedge trimmer maintenance tips

              • You can clean your hedge trimmer at regular intervals by using mild soap and water on the blade after use.
              • Store hedge trimmers in a clean and dry place.
              • When it's not in use, keep your trimmer in a safe place with the blade cover on, so it remains protected.
              • Take out the battery when storing, if you are not going to use your trimmer for a longer period of time - such as during the off-season in winter.

                Frequently asked questions about hedge trimmers

                What is the best hedge trimmer to buy?

                Still wondering what to consider when choosing a hedge trimmer? Here are some top tips:

                • Look for the right reach trimmers to suit your respective hedge sizes.
                • Consider teeth spacing and blade length. Wider teeth spacing and longer blades work better for thicker and taller hedges.
                • Choose a battery operated or petrol hedge trimmer that are easier for heavy use. Go for affordable corded hedge trimmers for regular use.

                What is better: cordless or corded hedge trimmer?

                Both corded and cordless trimmers have their benefits. Cordless hedge trimmers are convenient to use and offer flexible and efficient use for medium gardens. Meanwhile, corded trimmers are good for smaller gardens and are a more affordable option.

                What time of year to cut hedges UK?

                To keep your hedges well-maintained, it's best to cut them early spring and towards the end of summer, after bird nesting season has ended.

                What is the difference between a hedge trimmer and a hedge cutter?

                Hedge trimmers often refer to options for regular use and shaping or maintaining small or medium gardens. On the other hand, hedge cutters indicate heavier use and provide more power to cut thicker growth.

                How to trim a hedge properly for beginners?

                First, use the above guide to make sure you have the right hedge trimmer for your needs. Next, begin with the sides of your hedges and trim slightly while working your way to the tops, shaping them as you go. Make sure you also take necessary safety precautions while doing this. Read more about rules for hedge trimming for detailed guidance.

                Looking for more garden accessories?

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                4. Hoses
                5. Plants & pots
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                8. Watering cans
                9. Weed killer
                10. Compost
                11. Cutting & pruning
                12. Rakes

                Shop hedge trimmers by brand

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                1. Spear & Jackson.
                2. McGregor.
                3. Bosch.
                4. Black & Decker.

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