Short answer
For the neatest result, cut laurel with sharp secateurs, stem by stem. If you use a hedge trimmer for speed, keep the blades sharp and expect some leaf-edge browning. Cut about twice in the growing season, and hard prune in late winter.
Laurel has big, glossy leaves. Cutting across them leaves visible torn edges that turn brown. Cutting the stem instead gives a cleaner look.
When to cut
The RHS says laurel needs cutting about twice in the growing season. See when to cut a laurel hedge for timing.
Method with secateurs
- Check for nests.
- Cut individual shoots back to a leaf joint or main stem rather than slicing through leaves.
- Work in sections to keep the shape even.
- Collect cuttings as you go.
Method with a hedge trimmer
- Use a sharp trimmer and keep the blade moving smoothly.
- Cut the main shape quickly, then go over the visible areas with secateurs to remove any badly torn leaves.
- Avoid cutting in hot, dry weather when torn leaves brown quickly.
Reducing an overgrown laurel hedge
Laurel regrows well from old wood. Hard prune in late winter before nesting, ideally in two stages over two years. See how to cut an overgrown hedge back.
See also hedge trimmers for laurel.
Check for nests before you start; see our nesting season guide.