Hedge Trimming Price in Leicester

Have you ever been quoted two different prices for what seems like the same hedge trimming job and wondered why? You’re not alone. Many customers ask us why hedge cutting is sometimes cheaper than hedge shaping, or why one neighbour pays less even though they have the same type of hedge. At Leicester Tree Services, we believe in being clear and honest about our hedge trimming work and pricing. That’s why we’ve put together this explanation to help you understand how hedge trimming works, how the size and type of hedge affects the price, and what makes shaping more costly than standard cutting.

Hedge cutting is the most common hedge service people request. It usually means trimming the top and sides of a hedge to keep it neat and tidy. It’s a straightforward job, often done once or twice a year, and it helps keep your garden looking clean and well-maintained. We use tools like hedge trimmers, ladders, and sometimes handheld shears to carry out the work. Hedge cutting doesn’t change the shape of the hedge too much. It simply keeps things under control and prevents the hedge from getting too big, uneven, or messy. It’s like giving your hedge a basic haircut.

Hedge shaping, on the other hand, is a more detailed and time-consuming job. It goes beyond just cutting to maintain the size. With shaping, we focus on how the hedge looks—its design, curves, sharp lines, or even more creative forms. Some people want rounded tops, others want flat square edges, and some ask for dome shapes or ornamental styles. Shaping requires extra care, skill, and patience. We often need to step back multiple times to check the angles, make adjustments, and ensure everything looks just right from every side. If the shape is off even a little, it’s very noticeable, so precision is key.

This extra time and care is why hedge shaping costs more than regular cutting. It’s not just about trimming a few leaves—it’s about achieving a look that enhances your garden and adds structure to your outdoor space. With some shaping jobs, especially formal or decorative hedges, we may even use string lines or levels to ensure perfect symmetry. That level of detail naturally takes longer, and as a result, the price reflects the effort and skill involved.

Another reason shaping can be more expensive is that it often involves hedges that have not been maintained regularly. If a hedge hasn’t been trimmed in a long time, it’s usually taller, wider, and more unruly. It may have grown out of shape, developed gaps, or become uneven. Before shaping can begin, we usually need to reduce the size first, which is almost like doing two jobs in one. Reduction is more intensive than regular cutting, and combining it with shaping makes the overall process more complex and time-consuming.

Aside from the type of trimming, the size of the hedge also plays a huge role in determining the cost. Bigger hedges take longer to cut and require more equipment, fuel, and clean-up. A short hedge that’s one metre tall and five metres long can be done quickly with minimal tools. But a tall hedge that’s three metres high and runs the length of a garden can take hours to cut properly. We may need ladders, step platforms, or even extended reach tools. The taller and longer the hedge, the more time it takes, and the more material we have to remove at the end.

The thickness of the hedge matters too. Some hedges are very narrow, meaning we only need to trim a small surface area. Others are dense and wide, sometimes up to a metre thick or more. That means we’re cutting a lot more volume, which again takes more time and results in more clippings to clean up. If a hedge is particularly woody or overgrown, we may also need to use heavier tools, which slows the process further and affects the final cost.

Accessibility is another factor people don’t always think about, but it really makes a difference. If your hedge is in a wide-open garden with easy access from the street or driveway, that helps us get the job done faster. But if the hedge is behind a narrow gate, on a steep slope, or backed up against a fence or wall, it becomes more challenging. We may need to carry tools and waste by hand over longer distances or work in tight, awkward spaces. All of that adds time and effort, which can influence the price.

Some people ask why their hedge trimming price changed from one year to the next, even though it’s the same hedge. The answer is usually due to how much it has grown since the last trim. If the hedge was left for a year or two without cutting, it will take more time to bring it back into shape. The sides may be thicker, the top might be higher, and the branches may have grown unevenly. This often means we have to cut more material, make several passes with the trimmer, and spend extra time on clean-up. On the other hand, if the hedge is trimmed regularly, each job is quicker and easier—and that can help keep the cost down over time.

At Leicester Tree Services, we always try to offer fair and honest pricing. We base our quotes on the amount of work required, the condition of the hedge, and what kind of finish the customer wants. If you just need a quick tidy-up of the top and sides, we’ll price it accordingly. But if you want a carefully shaped finish with clean edges and a balanced design, we’ll let you know the cost upfront. There are no hidden fees, and we’ll always explain what’s included.

Our service doesn’t just stop at cutting. We also clean up all clippings and can take the green waste away if you prefer. Some customers like to keep the trimmings for compost or mulch, and that’s absolutely fine too. We’re flexible and happy to tailor our work to suit your garden and your budget. We can also give advice on how often your particular hedge should be trimmed to keep it in good shape and reduce long-term costs.

For people who want to keep their hedges neat all year round, we offer regular maintenance plans. With these, we visit once or twice a year, depending on the type of hedge and your preferences. Not only does this make each trim quicker and cheaper, but it also helps the hedge stay healthy and well-structured. A well-maintained hedge is easier to work with, responds better to shaping, and looks great throughout the seasons.

So, to sum it all up, hedge cutting is a simpler job that keeps your hedge the same size and shape, while hedge shaping involves more care, time, and skill to achieve a specific look or correct an uneven hedge. In Leicester, the size of your hedge—its height, length, width, and thickness—will all affect the price, as will how accessible it is and how long it’s been since the last trim. Shaping costs more than standard cutting, but it can make a huge difference in how your garden looks.

If you’re ever unsure about what your hedge needs, don’t worry—we’re here to help. At Leicester Tree Services, we offer free quotes and honest advice. You can send us a photo of your hedge, or we can come out for a quick look. We’ll let you know whether you need a simple trim or a bit more shaping, and we’ll give you a clear price before any work begins. Whether it’s a quick tidy-up or a full reshape, we’ll get your hedge looking its best. Give us a call today and see how easy and affordable professional hedge care can be.

Leicester Tree Services
6 St Georges Way 
Leicester 
LE1 1SH 
Phone:  01164035555

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