Short answer
Trim a yew hedge twice a year, in summer and autumn (RHS). Yew is unusual among conifers because it can be cut back hard into old wood and will usually regrow.
Yew gives a dense, dark green hedge that suits formal gardens. Growth is slower than privet or leylandii, so maintenance is lighter, but the wood is tougher, so tool capacity matters.
Timing
- Summer: main trim to shape and remove the year’s growth.
- Autumn: second trim to tidy before winter.
- Late winter to early spring: hard pruning of overgrown yew, before nesting begins.
Hard pruning yew
The RHS notes that most conifers do not regrow from old wood, but yew is an exception. For a very overgrown yew hedge, cut back in stages over two or three years rather than all at once. Expect bare patches to green over slowly.
Tool choice
Yew stems can be tough once woody. Choose a trimmer with adequate cutting capacity, and keep blades sharp. See trimmers for thick branches and cutting capacity explained. All parts of yew are poisonous if eaten, so clear clippings away from pets and livestock.
Whatever the species, check the hedge for active nests before you start. It is an offence to intentionally damage or destroy a wild bird’s nest that is in use or being built; see our nesting season guide.