How should hedges be trimmed to maintain structure?

• A. Tall and wide
• B. Narrow and as close as possible
• C. Short and rounded
• D. Heavily angled over the bed

Answer: (B)

Maintaining a neat, consistent silhouette is what preserves the hedge’s structure. Trimming to a narrow, compact shape helps the plant fill in evenly along the entire height and width, keeping the hedge dense and well-supported rather than letting it sprawl outward or upward uncontrollably. This approach also preserves a clear, defined edge and makes maintenance easier over time, while reducing the risk of weak, top-heavy growth that can topple or thin out.

Letting growth get tall and wide tends to produce a top-heavy, unstable form with gaps lower down. A short, rounded shape reduces the effective screen and can lead to uneven regrowth, while a drastic angle over the bed shades the bed and creates an awkward, hard-to-maintain outline.