Professional hedge trimming and shrub maintenance to keep your property clean, balanced, and healthy.
Proper hedge and shrub maintenance goes far beyond aesthetics -- it directly affects plant health, density, and longevity. In the Montreal region, the most common hedge species include cedar (Eastern white cedar/Thuja occidentalis), privet, alpine currant, boxwood, and lilac, each requiring different trimming timing and techniques. Cedar hedges, which are by far the most popular in Quebec, should be trimmed in late June after the spring growth flush, with a possible light touch-up in early September. We shape cedar hedges slightly narrower at the top than at the base so sunlight reaches lower branches, preventing the bare-bottom syndrome that plagues neglected hedges. For flowering shrubs like lilac, spirea, and hydrangea, timing is critical: spring-blooming shrubs are pruned right after flowering, while summer-blooming varieties are pruned in early spring before new growth. Our crews use sharp, professional-grade gas and battery-powered hedge trimmers for clean cuts that heal quickly, and hand pruners for selective interior thinning that improves air circulation and reduces fungal disease. We collect and remove all clippings, leaving your property clean. For overgrown hedges that have lost their shape, we offer rejuvenation pruning -- a more aggressive cut-back done in early spring that stimulates dense new growth from the base. We also monitor hedges for common Quebec issues like cedar leaf miner, spider mites, and winter burn, and recommend treatments when problems are detected early.
Why this service
Cleaner property appearance
Healthier plant growth
Seasonal shaping and upkeep
FAQ for this service
When is the best time to trim cedar hedges in Quebec?
The ideal time is late June to early July, after the spring growth has hardened off. A light second trim can be done in early September. Avoid trimming after mid-September because new growth will not have time to harden before frost, making it vulnerable to winter damage. Never cut into old brown wood on cedars -- they will not regenerate from bare branches.
How do I fix a cedar hedge that is bare at the bottom?
Unfortunately, cedars do not regenerate from old wood the way deciduous hedges can. Prevention is key: always maintain a wider base than top so lower branches receive sunlight. For existing bare-bottom hedges, options include planting low shrubs or perennials at the base to fill the gap, or in severe cases, replacing the hedge with new stock and maintaining proper form from the start.
How often should hedges and shrubs be trimmed during the season?
Most formal hedges benefit from two trims per season -- once in late June and a light shaping in early September. Fast-growing species like privet may need three trims. Flowering shrubs are typically pruned once per year at the appropriate time for their bloom cycle. We tailor the schedule to the specific species on your property.
