How to Get a Straight Line when Trimming a Hedge

Last Updated: September 15, 2021

Trusting your eye is not the best method for getting a straight hedge when trimming it. You'll often stand back and realize how wobbly the hedge really looks after doing this! This article provides a very simple-to-follow solution.

Steps

1
Cut string the length of your hedge and some extra. The extra should be enough to wrap around and tie onto the stakes.^{[1]
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2
Set a stake at each end of the hedge that you are trimming. Hammer into the ground lightly. You can put in stakes and string lines lengthwise and width wise as needed.^{[2]
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Royal Horticultural Society
Leading gardening charity in the U.K. providing resources for identifying, growing and caring for flowers and other plants
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3
Tie the string onto each stake. Match the level of the string with the height at which you want to trim the hedge. The string line will act as a guide to get a uniform height and width.^{[3]
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Trustworthy Source
Royal Horticultural Society
Leading gardening charity in the U.K. providing resources for identifying, growing and caring for flowers and other plants
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4
Trim the hedge down to the lowest point, following the string lines. The final look will be very professional.^{[4]
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Community Q&A

Question

How do I plant a hedge using stem cuttings?

Community Answer

Some hedges won't grow from cuttings, but most will. Put the cutting in a cup of water, wait until it grows roots, then plant it in soil. Be prepared, because it might not work out.