Need help with my western red cedar hedge - Ask Extension
I trimmed my hedge too much (didn't realize that only the outer-most layer has green leaves) and it's left with lots of "holes" in it for tw...
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Need help with my western red cedar hedge #835346
Asked June 13, 2023, 2:30 AM EDT
I trimmed my hedge too much (didn't realize that only the outer-most layer has green leaves) and it's left with lots of "holes" in it for two years. My app says that this is western red cedar. I guess those lower branches don't grow new leaves anymore because the top branches get more sunlight. What can I do to help the lower branches regrow?
Thanks!
Clackamas County Oregon
Expert Response
Hi and thanks for your question about regrowing the lower branches of a cedar hedge trimmed too closely. Unfortunately, having done the same thing to our hedge, I can tell you there is nothing that will make them regrow.
Encouraging tall shrubs in front of the damage can help, and it looks like there might be some lower branches of the hedge that could eventually rise up. They will never fill in like you are hoping and will always look "more natural" as they flare out and compensate for the bare area. Perhaps consulting a landscape firm will have some ideas of a more beautiful solution.
Sorry not to be more encouraging,
Encouraging tall shrubs in front of the damage can help, and it looks like there might be some lower branches of the hedge that could eventually rise up. They will never fill in like you are hoping and will always look "more natural" as they flare out and compensate for the bare area. Perhaps consulting a landscape firm will have some ideas of a more beautiful solution.
Sorry not to be more encouraging,
