Hedge Trimmer Reach Calculator
Trying to trim a tall hedge with the wrong tool leads to an uneven finish and unnecessary risk from stretching or using a ladder. Enter your hedge height below to see whether a handheld or long-reach pole trimmer is the right choice.
Find out which hedge trimmer you need
Enter your hedge height to see whether a handheld or pole trimmer is best.
At 1.8m tall, this hedge is within comfortable reach.
A standard handheld hedge trimmer is enough
Standing at ground level, most adults can comfortably reach up to around 2.2m with a handheld trimmer.
Recommended products
A few well-reviewed hedge trimmers and strimmers to consider.
- Cordless
- 2 Years
£87.99
Pros
- Laser-cut, diamond-ground steel blades for a clean cut
- 60cm cutting length suits medium-large hedges
- Compatible with the wider Einhell Power X-Change battery system
Cons
- Sold body only — battery and charger purchased separately
- Cordless
- 1 Year
£79.99
Pros
- 2.4m telescopic pole reaches tall or awkward hedges
- Two batteries included for extended runtime
- Shoulder strap reduces arm fatigue on longer jobs
Cons
- Heavier than a standard hand-held trimmer when extended
- Cordless
- 1 Year
£59.99
Pros
- Adjustable 120° head angles to cut tops and sides
- 51cm dual-action blades reduce vibration
- Lightweight design under 4kg
Cons
- Single battery limits continuous run time
Frequently asked questions
How do I know if my hedge is too tall for a handheld trimmer?
If you find yourself stretching, standing on tiptoes or using a stepladder to reach the top of the hedge, it's a sign you've gone past comfortable handheld reach and a pole trimmer would be safer and easier.
Is a pole hedge trimmer safe to use instead of a ladder?
Yes, and it's generally safer than a ladder, since you keep both feet on the ground throughout, whereas working from a ladder while operating a trimmer overhead increases the risk of losing your balance.
Can I use a pole trimmer for hedges within handheld reach too?
You can, though a handheld trimmer is usually lighter, easier to control and gives a neater finish on lower sections, so many people keep both and switch to the pole only for the taller top growth.
Do longer pole trimmers cut as well as handheld ones?
Longer poles add some weight and reduce how precisely you can control the blade at full extension, so it's worth choosing the shortest pole length that comfortably reaches the top of your hedge rather than the longest available.
How this calculator works
The Reach Calculator uses a simple formula to estimate the volume of hedge you need to trim based on its height and width. We multiply the height (in metres) by the average width (also in metres) to give you an approximate area in square metres. This area is then multiplied by a standard hedge density factor – we've used 0.75m³ per square metre for this calculation, reflecting typical UK hedge densities. This provides a volume estimate that’s helpful when considering the power needed from a trimmer.
Comparing Trimmer Types & Hedge Sizes
- **Handheld Trimmers:** Generally suitable for hedges up to 1.5m tall and 1m wide, offering precision and manoeuvrability. Prices typically range from £35 - £75.
- **Pole Trimmers (up to 3m Reach):** Effective for hedges between 1.5m and 2.5m tall and up to 1.5m wide. Expect to pay around £140 - £280.
- **Pole Trimmers (up to 6m Reach):** Ideal for larger hedges exceeding 3m in height, offering significant reach. Prices usually start from £300 – £600 depending on power and features.
- Consider the angle of approach when using a pole trimmer; working directly perpendicular will maximize cutting efficiency.
- For very dense or overgrown hedges, a longer reach is almost always beneficial to prevent excessive reaching and strain.
Worked example: Beech Hedge
Let’s say you have a beech hedge that's 2.5m tall and averages 1.2m wide. Using the calculator, we get an estimated volume of (2.5m x 1.2m) * 0.75m³ = 2.25 m³. This suggests a standard handheld trimmer might struggle to efficiently cut this hedge due to the need for frequent repositioning and potentially strenuous reaching. A pole trimmer with a 3m reach would offer significantly improved coverage.
More questions answered
What does the 'hedge density factor' represent?
The 0.75m³ per square metre is an average value based on typical UK hedge densities. Denser hedges will require more power to cut effectively, while sparser hedges may be manageable with a smaller trimmer. You can adjust this factor if you have specific knowledge of your hedge’s density – consult manufacturer recommendations.
How accurate are these calculations?
This calculator provides an estimate based on simplified assumptions. The actual volume of your hedge will vary depending on its shape, density, and overall health. Consider it a helpful starting point for comparing trimmer sizes.
What if my hedge isn't rectangular?
The calculator assumes a rectangular shape. For irregular hedges, overestimate the width slightly to account for curved areas. It’s always better to err on the side of a larger trimmer than one that’s too small.
Should I factor in ground obstacles when measuring?
Yes! Make sure you accurately measure the hedge's height and width, accounting for any branches, fences, or other obstructions that might limit your reach. This will give you a more realistic estimate of the area you need to cover.
What happens if I use a different hedge density factor?
Changing the density factor will directly impact the calculated volume and therefore the recommended trimmer size. A higher density factor means a larger volume, requiring a more powerful trimmer with greater reach.
Can I use this calculator for shrubs as well as hedges?
While primarily designed for hedges, you can use it for shrubs too. However, shrub densities can vary significantly, so adjust the density factor accordingly – typically lower than 0.75m³ for dense shrubs.
What if I need to cut a very narrow hedge?
For extremely narrow hedges (less than 0.8m wide), a handheld trimmer will almost always be sufficient, regardless of the height. The calculator will likely overestimate the volume in these cases.
Does this calculator account for slope?
No, this calculator does not account for slopes. When working on a sloped hedge, consider the angle and adjust your approach accordingly – safety first! A longer pole trimmer can be particularly useful on sloping ground.
What is the best way to measure hedge height accurately?
Use a tape measure held vertically from the base of the hedge to the highest point. Ensure you're measuring at an angle for greater accuracy – especially with taller hedges.
I’m using a long-reach pole trimmer, but it feels awkward. What can I do?
Ensure you're using a comfortable grip and maintaining good posture to avoid strain. Consider investing in a trimming attachment that provides better leverage and control for extended reach.