The answer to 'when to hedge' is that the best time to hedge your landscaping is typically in the late winter or early spring, before new growth appears. Hedging during this dormant period allows the plants to recover quickly and encourages dense, uniform growth. Hedging in the summer or fall can stress the plants and lead to uneven or stunted growth.
For optimal results, most experts recommend hedging every 1-2 years, depending on the growth rate of your specific plants. This regular maintenance helps keep your hedges looking neat and tidy throughout the year.