Question
I have an old cedar hedge that I have neglected. It is approximately 4-5 m high and 50 m long (surrounds my back yard).  It now has one or two thin spots and is bending over at points.

I have read that it is best to get rid of the cedar hedge when it is overgrown, however, I would really like to keep it if it is at all possible. Can I trim it back severely and still have it grow back? If so how should I trim it back.  Also how long would it take for it re-grow such that it will again be a dense hedge?

I would appreciate any guidance you can offer.

Thanks,
Thijs  

Answer
Thijs,
I would start by reducing the hedges height by no more than 3 feet (1 meter) then slowly prune them in, not taking too much side growth at any one time. The thin spots will eventually fill in once the upward growth has been slowed down.
Fertilize them twice a year, Spring and Fall is best, to maintain their health and vigor. This will also help to speed up the overall thickening process.
The areas that are bending over need to be tied up to encourage straight upward growth.

I wish you luck.
Ed Gulliksen