Hedge trimming cost: Complete guide to garden budget planning

Whether you’re after privacy and protection or just want your garden to look the part, well-maintained hedges make all the difference. But the truth is that wrestling with hedge trimmers on a weekend isn’t everyone’s idea of a good time, especially when you’re already juggling work, family, and that endless to-do list. So when your hedges start looking wild, it’s time to call in the pros.

In the UK, professional hedge trimming typically costs between £100 and £250 per job. The final price depends on several factors, but this guide breaks down exactly what you’ll pay and what affects the cost.  

Average hedge trimming costs

The best part about hiring a hedge trimming specialist is that most offer additional garden services. Many professionals can handle garden cleaning, decking maintenance, or even fence repairs alongside your hedge work. This means you can often bundle services together, potentially saving money and sorting your outdoor space in one go.

Factors affecting hedge trimming costs

Close-up of precise hedge cutting for garden upkeep. (Source: iStock)

Several factors affect the average cost of trimming hedges:

Hedge size and condition

The bigger the hedge, the longer it will take for tradespersons to finish trimming it. If the hedge has grown tall and out of control, you will need ropes, climbing equipment, and scaffolding to access it. Due to the added complexity, hedge trimming costs per foot will increase.

Preparation and cleanup

When trimming hedges, different services might be necessary before or after the task. Before doing the hedge trimming task, the place should be safe and accessible to tradespersons. Hence, a pre-garden cleanup is needed. After that, dispose of waste to keep the area tidy and clean. You can do this on your own to save up on costs.

It’s recommended to have a professional check your hedges for wildlife nests between March and August because it’s the bird nesting season. You’re not supposed to disturb and destroy any bird nests during this season to protect them, according to the Wildlife and Countryside Act of 1981, so if a nest is found, you’ll need to wait until the season ends, causing delays and driving up the hedge trimming costs. 

Your location

If you live in bigger cities like London, you need a bigger budget because of the higher operating costs. On the other hand, costs tend to be lower in places such as Northern England, Scotland, and Northern Ireland. Note that though you may have to pay extra travel fees if you live in a rural area.

Accessibility 

Costs might also increase if you live in harder-to-reach areas or your hedge obstructs powerlines. The added cost will cover additional safety procedures and time on the road.

Benefits of hedge trimming

Manual hedge trimming helps maintain clean landscape edges. (Source: iStock)

Beyond the obvious aesthetic appeal, well-maintained hedges are one of the smartest investments you can make in your property. They work around the clock to provide privacy, define boundaries, and create a year-round professional look. Regular trimming also prevents costly hedge replacement and saves you hours of weekend wrestling with overgrown branches.

Trimming hedges also has many other benefits, including:

• Privacy and protection for your family
• Clear boundaries to prevent neighbour disputes
• Wildlife haven for birds and beneficial insects
• Healthier plant growth and disease prevention
• Enhanced kerb appeal and property value
• Design flexibility for formal or creative styles
• Reduced long-term maintenance costs

Save time with expert hedge care today

Now you know exactly what to expect regarding hedge trimming costs in the UK. From basic trimming at £5 per metre to complete hedge removal jobs, understanding these prices helps you avoid going over budget. 

Ready to get your garden looking magazine-worthy without breaking a sweat? Post your hedge trimming task on Airtasker today and connect with local gardeners who know exactly how to handle your specific hedge type. Your perfectly manicured garden is just one post away!