How much does pruning cost? [November 2024]

How much does pruning cost? 
 

Gardeners will typically charge an hourly rate (£20 - £60 inc VAT) for pruning services. Pruning is often booked as part of regular garden maintenance, which may also include tasks like weeding, lawn mowing, and planting. 

Pruning typically takes around 1 - 4 hours, depending on the number of plants needing pruning, and whether you book any additional gardening servcies.  

Here's a breakdown of what you can expect to pay for pruning services in London and outside of London. 

What other factors affect the cost of pruning?
 

The number of plants requiring pruning will directly affect the overall cost of your gardening service. However, other factors may also play a role, such as your location, along with the specific species and condition of the plants.
 

1. Where you live
 

The hourly rate for a gardener will vary depending on where you live. Generally, you’ll pay at least 20% more if you live in London compared to other areas of the UK. 

If you live far out into the countryside, you may also find that gardeners will add a surcharge to cover additional travel expenses.
 

2. Species of plants in your garden

Some plants are more complex to prune than others, so may require extra time and precision.

For example, Wisteria is known for its fast-growing, tangled vines, which can be challenging to manage and require careful pruning to keep growth under control and promote flowering. By contrast, Hydrangeas are usually easy to mainstain, requiring only miminal pruning to maintain their health and bloom well.^[1] 

3. Condition of your plants
 

Light pruning may be all that’s needed for well-maintained plants that are regularly pruned. However, in overgrown gardens, more extensive pruning may be needed to address issues like overcrowded branches and dead or damaged plants. This process takes more time and effort, which can lead to higher costs.

Why is pruning so important?
 

Pruning is an essential step for maintaining a healthy, flourishing garden.

Trimming dead flowers or branches at the right time can trigger a natural chemical response, stimulating new growth.^[2] Removing the dead ends allows the plant to focus its energy more efficiently, leading to healthier and more vibrant blooms.

Pruning also plays a crucial role in maintaining the shape and size of your plants. Without regular pruning, plants can become overgrown, with tangled branches. ^[3] Keeping everything neat and tidy through pruning allows for better airflow and increased sunlight exposure, both of which promote healthier growth.

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When is the best time to prune?
 

Timing is incredibly important when it comes to pruning. The best time to prune entirely depends on the type of plant, and when they bloom. 

Typically, pruning should take place straight after flowering ends for plants that flower between Christmas and late summer. These plants often bloom on ‘old wood’ (previous year's growth), so pruning at this time allows new growth to develop through the growing season.

By contrast, those plants flowering between late summer and Christmas should usually be pruned the following spring.^[2] These plants usually bloom on ‘new wood’, the current year’s growth. Pruning these particular plants in spring encourages fresh growth later in the year. 

Of course, this may not apply to every plant, so it's wise to consult with a professional gardener to determine the best approach for your specific plants.

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What are the benefits of hiring a professional to prune my garden? 
 

Pruning can be time-consuming, especially if you don’t know much about the plants in your garden.

Professional gardeners have the skillset and knowledge to understand your plant's specific needs, knowing when, where and how much to prune for the best results. They’ll also be able to spot any pests or diseases and offer useful advice on managing them. 

Professional gardeners will also come well-equipped with the proper tools to prune effectively and safely. This is especially important when handling thorny plants. 

Many gardening services will offer pruning as part of regular garden maintenance, alongside other tasks such as weeding, planting and lawn mowing. Most professional gardeners will also offer waste removal services, so you don’t have to worry about disposing of any clippings or other garden waste.

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Where can I find a gardener to prune my garden?
 

There are many ways to find a trusted gardener, from recommendations from friends and family to community boards. Many garden centres will recommend a gardener or even provide the services directly. 

If you'd rather skip the stress of searching for a reliable gardener, you can book through a professional tradesperson service like Housekeep. We offer a wide range of gardening services, including weeding, turfing, pruning, and much more. Just let us know what needs to be done, and we’ll take care of the rest. We’ll match you with a trusted, experienced gardener at a time that’s convenient for you.

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