Content
- Only allowed in the cold season: shrubs cut according to Federal Nature Conservation Act
- Strict time frame: October 1 to 28/29. February
- Which woody plants and cutting measures are affected?
- Why is it not allowed to cut between March 1st and September 30th?
Shrubs may only be cut back strongly in late autumn and winter
Only allowed in the cold season: shrubs cut according to Federal Nature Conservation Act
Overgrown hedges and bushes are a hobby to some hobby gardeners. But beware: According to the Federal Nature Conservation Act, larger cutting measures may only be carried out within a specified period of time! Even in your own garden, these regulations apply.
Strict time frame: October 1 to 28/29. February
The law is for garden owners and allotment gardeners as we are for cities and communities: In the period between 1 March and 30 September it is strictly forbidden to cut back hedges and shrubs. The one who does not stick to it, faces a fine of several thousand euros. Since this nationally applicable time frame may be extended by the individual countries, you should inform yourself about the current legal situation.
Which woody plants and cutting measures are affected?
"It is forbidden to cut trees, hedges, living fences, bushes and other woody plants in the period from March 1 to September 30, to put them on the floor or to remove them; gentle forms and care cuts are permitted to eliminate the growth of plants or to maintain the health of trees, "is the wording of the law.
In concrete terms, this means that only the one-year-old wood may be cut back in order to keep the plants in shape. Recesses into perennial wood or the removal of whole woody plants are not allowed.
The scheme explicitly refers to all types of woody plants:
Please note that it is not only allowed but even obligatory to cut back hedges and shrubs so that you do not grow into sidewalks or lanes.
Why is it not allowed to cut between March 1st and September 30th?
It is not for nothing that the legislator prescribes these strict rules: they serve the protection of nature, in particular the protection of small animals, which nest in groves and seek protection. In spring, many species begin to build nests and burial caves in hedges, trees and shrubs. They need the sheltered environment to raise their babies undisturbed. If they are disturbed by summer cuts, they may or may not spawn their brood.
Therefore, you should pay attention to your animal housemates in the garden even with care cuts and in doubt leave the hedge trimmer better in the tool shed. Shrubby bushes have not harmed anyone yet, but loss of biodiversity through interference with nature can have serious consequences for all of us.