Guides
When and how to trim hedges in Madeira
In Funchal's mild climate hedges keep growing in winter too, so one trim a year is not enough. A short guide to timing, frequency and shape.
How often
- Fast hedges such as ficus or pittosporum: every 1–2 months from spring to autumn, once or twice in winter.
- Slower hedges: two or three trims a year are usually enough.
When
- The main shaping trim: at the end of winter or in early spring, before the strongest growth.
- Flowering shrubs — hibiscus, bougainvillea — right after flowering, so you don't cut off next season's flowers.
- Avoid hard cuts in the hottest, driest weeks: freshly exposed leaves burn in strong sun.
A shape that stays dense
- Keep the hedge slightly narrower at the top than at the bottom, so light reaches the lower leaves.
- Trim little and often rather than one hard cut: hard cuts leave bare patches.
Before you start
- In spring, check for birds' nests and leave active nests alone.
- Use sharp shears — torn leaves turn brown.
- Lay a sheet under the hedge: clearing up takes half the time.
When to call a professional
- Hedges above head height, hedges on a slope or over a wall, and old hedges that need a hard renovation cut.
Would rather not do it yourself?
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