How to Trim a Privet Hedge

Decide how you want the privet hedge to look when you trim it. Do you want to trim it for topiary or in a straight line to form a privacy hedge? Evaluate it to determine its final shape.

Tie a string to a branch at one end of the hedge and run it to the other end to form a guideline as you trim your hedge. Do not pull the string too taut at the other end before tying the knot, but leave an inch of gap in case you trim too much.

Use a clean pair of long-handled pruning shears with sharp blades. You can also use electric hedge trimmers that complete the task in several minutes and are good for creating angles or curves around the privet hedge.

Begin cutting any leaves of branches outside the string guideline by making quick, clean and straight cuts to snip them off. Avoid jagged cuts that could injure the privet hedge. Begin cutting at the top and work your way down.

Snip any long stems that are growing out of the hedge close to the ground to allow sunlight to penetrate the interior.

Place your shears parallel to the sides of the hedge and snip off any small stems or leaves growing outwards to make it straight and even. One side of your hedge is complete. Repeat this procedure for the other side and then the two short sides.

Trim the top of the hedge by keeping the shears parallel to the foliage and cutting any leaves or small stems that come in between. This way you will have a straight and even top.

Step back once you are done to assess the work. If you are satisfied with the trim, collect the dropped clippings from the ground in a wheelbarrow and remove the string. If you feel a certain part of your hedge is uneven, or you can see small stems escaping the form, go back and snip them off.