Thuja cut: Time & Topiary

Thujen (also called trees of life) belong to the conifers. As hedges, they need to be trimmed regularly and properly. We have tips ready for you.

Here in Germany they can be found in almost every garden and are particularly popular as a hedge and as a privacy screen for neighbors or the street - we are talking about Thujen or also called Tree of Life (Thuja). If conifers are not cut regularly, they can take on a larger volume than you would like. We show when and how to best prune thuja hedges and other conifers.

When to cut thuja and conifers?

In principle, it has proven useful to cut thuja hedges in summer, like most conifers, while the plant is growing. As a rule, one cut per year is sufficient. If necessary, a further care cut ensures a more well-groomed appearance. Ideally pick a cloudy day as the freshly cut shoots will burn quickly in direct sunlight.

You should, however, be aware that heavier pruning is not permitted in the summer months due to nature conservation in Germany. Below you will find out how to professionally trim the hedge.

These products are ideal for trimming your shrubs, hedges and trees:

• Felco Secateurs: Top-of-the-line manual pruning shears, pruning shears, recommended for all types of pruning. In addition to plastic-coated handles, it has a precision adjustment system for the blade and anvil.
• Felco Fruit Tree and Pruning Shears: Heavy duty fruit tree and pruning shears with wire cutter, sap groove and micrometer adjustment.
• Gardena telescopic arm scissors: Practical secateurs for effortlessly cutting tall trees and dense bushes from the ground.

Felco Orchard And Secateurs No 6€31.99Details →

Cut thuja and conifers into shape

Thuja hedges and other conifers are particularly popular because of their great design potential and high opacity. Basically, they can be trimmed wonderfully on the sides, as long as you only work superficially and do not go too deep into the hedge. Ideally, cut the thuja so that it widens towards the bottom. In this way you guarantee a good supply of light to all parts of the plant. Cuts at the top of thujas are also possible. However, you should definitely pay attention to a certain minimum height, otherwise you can look into the upper end of the bush. Only after several months does the gap gradually close and should therefore not be at eye level for a beautiful appearance.

Cut the Thuja as a Spiral

A popular shape for trees of life is a spiral that becomes more pointed towards the top. This works particularly well with thujas, as they grow very densely. For orientation, first place a string in a spiral over the plant. Now you can start from the top, cutting between the cord notches, which get smaller towards the bottom. For precise work, it is worth using a battery-powered saw or scissors instead of a chainsaw.

Cut thuja into a ball

The cut to the sphere is basically very simple and does not require much effort. Cut your thuja down so that the widest part is midway up the plant. Be careful not to cut off too much green at the top and bottom and be careful not to create a point.

There are also a few things to consider when fertilizing Thuja. You can find more about this in our special article.