Shapes of Hedge Trimmings

Formal Hedges

• If you've ever seen photographs of some of the great gardens of Europe, what you probably observed are formally manicured hedges. Thick, tall lengths of hedges come together to create walls and mazes in the outdoor space. Often flat on the top with vertically straight sides, formally shaped hedges require regular maintenance and constant upkeep to maintain their strict shape. In winter, snow may accumulate on the flat top and cause delicate branches underneath to break under the weight.

Informal Hedges

• Naturally shaped hedges, known as informal hedges, are different from formal ones in that their natural shape is allowed to emerge instead of being tightly controlled. Although trimming helps keep informal hedges even, promotes bushiness and prevents branches and limbs from becoming straggly, the upkeep is lower than for formal hedges. Allowing hedges to grow naturally also permits their blooms to blossom without interference and mimics the innate growth of the shrubs in nature.

Creative Hedges

• If you really want to take your hedge trimming to a new level, consider forming your shrubs into shapes such as animals, people or other objects. Topiaries -- shrubs that are cut into ornamental shapes -- add a touch of whimsy to any garden and can impress family and friends. Insert a wire frame of the desired shape into the ground where you want the topiary to grow, and plant shrubs at each point where the frame meets the soil. Topiary shrubs can take several years to grow before they're fully formed and trimmed into the desired shape.

Hedge Basics

• Although many tools are available for shaping hedges, you can gain the most control and perform detailed trimming with two-handled, scissor-action shears. When shaping manicured hedges, people often create a shape that's perfectly horizontal. Unfortunately, the upper branches often block sunlight from reaching the branches underneath them and can result in sparse growth down below. Trim hedges slightly closer at the top than at the bottom to allow low branches to receive the sunlight they need.