General guidance is that hedges should not be cut between 1st March and 31st July as this is regarded as the main bird nesting period. These dates are not specifically enshrined in law but are widely accepted and offences could be prosecuted under existing wildlife and countryside legislation.
The most convenient, safe, quiet and environmentally friendly way to give them a much-needed trim is to use a cordless hedge trimmer.
The Greenworks GWG40HT61 from the world’s largest producer of cordless garden machinery is powered by a lightweight 40v battery that provides up to 70 minutes run time, sufficient for all but the longest hedges. It weighs just 2.8 kg (excluding the battery) – just a tad heavier than a large bag of sugar – and its 61cm dual action steel blades make light work of the toughest hedge.
It is manoeuvrable, quiet and emission free. It will recharge from empty in just 1 hour when using the Universal Charger and costs £179.99 including battery and charger. It is a widely available in retail stores, from specialist dealers and online at www.greenworkstools.co.uk .