Hedges can be trimmed at any time of the year, dependent on the species. However hedge trimming and shaping are typically done between spring and summer, when more leaves are on the branches. However, you also need to take into account nesting season, where birds will be nesting in hedges typically from March to August. An assessment can be carried out on a hedge to determine whether any birds are nesting inside, and if they’re not then work can be carried out. If nesting birds are present, or the inspections were inconclusive, hedge trimming work will usually have to wait.