Winter Work at Kingston Lacy: Annual Taxus Hedge Trimming

Back in February, the team at James Dean Garden Maintenance carried out one of our standout winter projects at the Back in February, the team at James Dean Garden Maintenance carried out one of our standout winter projects at the magnificent Kingston Lacy estate—our annual trimming of the property’s extensive Taxus (Yew) hedge. Winter is an ideal time for structural work, and this year’s task was made even more efficient and precise thanks to the use of a professional cherry picker, allowing us to reach the tallest sections safely and with complete accuracy.

Preserving a Historic Landscape

Set within Dorset’s countryside, Kingston Lacy’s formal gardens are defined by mature Yew hedging that adds structure, symmetry, and timeless elegance. Ensuring these hedges maintain their historic character is a responsibility we take great pride in.

February’s Work: Safety, Access & Precision

The Taxus hedge at Kingston Lacy is both tall and expansive, and maintaining its crisp architecture requires the right equipment and expertise. To complete the winter trim effectively, we used a cherry picker to reach the higher sections, ensuring a flawless result from top to bottom.

Our February tasks included:

• Accessing the tallest sections via cherry picker for safe, controlled trimming
• Crisp structural shaping to maintain the hedge’s formal profile
• Balancing the upper canopy for even growth throughout the year
• Fine detailing along the sides and base using long-reach tools
• Full cleanup of clippings to leave paths and lawns immaculate
• A winter health assessment to check for any weather-related damage

The combination of skilled hands and the right access equipment allowed us to produce a clean, uniform finish across the entire length of the hedge.

A Unique Working Environment

Working at Kingston Lacy in winter offers a peaceful atmosphere, with low sunlight and quiet grounds providing a dramatic setting for the task. Using the cherry picker allowed us to work safely and efficiently, particularly on the tallest and most demanding sections of the hedge—ensuring every surface, edge, and angle maintains the high standard expected of a National Trust property.

The Importance of Winter Hedge Maintenance

Trimming Taxus hedges in winter helps:

• Encourage dense, fresh growth in spring
• Strengthen the hedge’s long-term structure
• Prevent overgrowth and gapping
• Maintain the formal architectural lines integral to the estate’s design

By completing this work early in the year, the hedge is set up for a healthy and attractive growing season.

Proudly Supporting the National Trust

We value our ongoing relationship with the National Trust and the opportunity to contribute to the care of Kingston Lacy’s remarkable gardens. Heritage landscapes require precision, knowledge, and respect—qualities we bring to every project.

If you have tall or large-scale hedging that needs expert attention, whether via cherry picker or traditional methods, James Dean Garden Maintenance is here to help.
Get in touch to discuss your garden maintenance needs.