Help - how do I get this tree back into shape?

[Polywhirl]

I have a really messy hedge which needs some work getting back into shape. My main worry at the moment is how do I prune this overgrown Rowan (in the center) before it gets too unmanageable? It’s really tall and spindly but I’m not sure where to prune. Thanks

The RHS website has lots of info on pruning trees etc.

Thanks I will try there - just not sure how much to take off.

I suspect it's tall and spindly because it's desperately trying to reach the light in the shade of that huge conifer. I think you'll struggle to get that bit of the hedge back into shape while the conifer's still there.

At the moment it has two large branches which form a sort of catapult look/effect. It might be worth getting rid of one of those altogether (probably the more sideways left one), and shortening the other one by about a half, just above a new leader.

If you make big cuts, there is stuff you can buy to seal them so diseases can't get in.

Thanks for replying. Yes the conifer is a big problem - saving up to get it sorted. Until then I will have a go at reducing the height of the left hand side, I just don’t want it to get too tall.

If you make big cuts, there is stuff you can buy to seal them so diseases can't get in. Advice seems to be moving away from sealing cuts. RHS advice here: www.rhs.org.uk/advice/profile?pid=325