Hebe

[Yellowfingers]

A number of years ago I planted a hebe hedge around my patio but it has become neglected, grown about 3’6” tall and woody. Can I prune it hard back to about 18” or will it just die or go woody and ugly

Hebes don’t really like hard pruning but you could try bringing 1/3 of the growth back to a low bud. Over time you will get a better shape.

You can also prune once flowering has finished to deadhead and improve the shape but don’t take too much off at this stage.

Use the prunings to start softwood cuttings: if any plants react badly to pruning then you will have ready-made, identical replacements.