If you have not done so already, trim deciduous hedges such as hornbeam and beech immediately, before this year's growth becomes tough and unwieldy. Yew and laurel should also get a haircut now. If possible, use a secateurs on the latter, rather than a shears or a hedgetrimmer, as this avoids the problem of unsightly, half-sliced leaves. Fast-growing coniferous hedges such as Leyland and Lawson's cypress may be clipped back now, except in exposed coastal areas where the extra layer of protective growth will help prevent wind damage. And for a neat, formal hedge that is fully clothed in leaves from top to toe, trim it so that the base is slightly wider than the top. This allows light and air to reach the entire surface, promoting good leaf-growth.