Gardening expert Monty Don has shared when you should and shouldn't prune your hedges - and the important reason timing is everything when it comes to sprucing up outdoor areas in the UK08:38, 30 Jun 2026Gardening expert Monty Don has revealed the exact time homeowners should prune their hedges - and explained why it's absolutely crucial to hold off until a particular point in the year.The much-loved horticulturist, broadcaster and author has become an essential resource for anyone wanting to expand their knowledge about their gardens and outdoor areas.Whether you're hoping to help perennial plants thrive, wish to encourage local wildlife, or are simply aiming to craft your own peaceful retreat at home, the specialist offers countless recommendations.Regarded as a wealth of gardening wisdom, Monty is probably best known for his main presenting role on the popular BBC gardening programme Gardeners' World.Like many industry pros, Don frequently shares tips and guidance through social media, regularly posting pictures from his garden and offering behind-the-scenes glimpses into tasks he's undertaken to maximise his outdoor spaces.On trimming hedges, the gardening specialist has cautioned people to be careful and avoid cutting them too early.In fact, it's particularly vital to wait until late summer before taking the shears to your hedges. Why is this, you might wonder? To help safeguard various local birds.Lots of UK birds nest in hedges throughout the summer, including robins, house sparrows, blackbirds and wrens - and trimming yours too soon could endanger their young.On X, Monty previously stated that spring - particularly April - "is the very worst time to cut hedges" because young birds remain in their nests.Of the safest period for hedge trimming, Monty explained the "best times for birds are winter months and late summer when all are fully fledged and left nests". During summer, this typically means late August.The Royal Horticultural Society (RHS) emphasises that disturbing nesting birds is against the law. It states: "Before undertaking work on hedges, check that there are no nesting birds in the hedge, as it is an offence under the Wildlife & Countryside Act 1981 to damage or destroy the nest of any wild bird while it is in use or being built."It does acknowledge the maintenance required to maintain hedges in top condition: "Hedges require pruning after planting and regular trimming once established, to keep them dense, looking neat and within bounds."The RHS adds: "Hand-held hedge shears are fine for smaller hedges, but for large hedges you'll probably find it easier to use a powered hedge trimmer. Many different types are available, including corded electric, battery-powered and petrol trimmers."Their weight is an important factor to consider, particularly if you have a lot of hedging to cut."Monty Don launched his television career in 1989, presenting a regular gardening slot on This Morning which opened doors to additional opportunities on various channels. An accomplished author, he's penned more than 25 books since his debut publication in 1990.In 2003, following Alan Titchmarsh's recommendation, he became the main presenter on the popular BBC programme, Gardener's World.He's also created and fronted numerous garden series of his own, including 2026's Monty Don's Rhineland Gardens.