i have a tall hedge that i would like to shorten by 3 foot off the
top. would this kill it? not going to do it in this hot weather though.
any thoughts folks....
Hello samuria - I hope this will answer your question (which I thought was clearly stated):
https://www.gardenersworld.com/how-to/maintain-the-garden/how-to-trim-a-conifer-hedge/The book
Pruning Simplified by Lewis Hill provides this additional information on page 11:
"Neither broadleafed evergreens nor conifers are likely to benefit greatly by severe dehorning (beheading) measures, either. Unless the tree is young and vigorous, a drastic slashing may prove fatal." Based on this information, I think removing 2 or 3 feet at one time might be harmful. On page 76 of the same book, a process called shearing (for green new growth) is described that is a technique similar to what is illustrated in the link I provided above.
Beyond that, if you want to remove more height, I would enlist the help of a professional that is experienced with maintaining conifer hedges of the specific type that you own.
I hope this helps. Good luck to you.
