Leylandii Trees: How Big Do They Get and When Should They Be Removed?
Leylandii trees are one of the most commonly planted hedges in the UK. Also known as Leyland cypress, Leylandii conifers or simply Leylandii hedges, they are popular because they grow quickly and provide excellent privacy.
However, their rapid growth also means they can quickly become too large for residential gardens if they are not regularly maintained.
As professional tree surgeons, Leylandii reduction and removal is one of the most common types of work we carry out, and we regularly receive requests for quotes from homeowners whose hedges or trees have grown too tall or too dense.
Because Leylandii can grow extremely quickly, they can easily reach heights that make them difficult to manage safely without professional help.
In this guide we explain how large Leylandii trees can grow, when they should be reduced or removed, and what homeowners should know about managing them.
How Fast Do Leylandii Trees Grow?
Leylandii are extremely fast-growing evergreen trees. Under the right conditions they can grow between 60cm and 1 metre per year.
Because of this rapid growth, Leylandii hedges can quickly reach heights of 10–20 metres if left unmanaged.
Without regular trimming, these trees can:
Block sunlight from neighbouring gardens
Grow far beyond their intended height
Become difficult to maintain safely
Cause disputes between neighbours
This is one reason why Leylandii reduction and removal are among the most common requests we receive for tree surgery work.
When Should Leylandii Be Reduced?
In many cases, a professional hedge reduction or tree reduction can bring Leylandii back under control.
Reduction may be appropriate when:
The hedge has grown taller than desired
Branches are extending into neighbouring property
The trees are blocking light
The hedge has become difficult to maintain
Professional reduction carefully reduces the height and spread of the hedge while maintaining a neat and healthy structure.
However, it’s important to note that Leylandii do not regenerate well from old wood, so reductions must be carried out correctly to avoid damaging the hedge.
When Should Leylandii Trees Be Removed?
Sometimes reduction is no longer practical and complete removal becomes the best solution.
Leylandii removal may be recommended when:
The trees have grown far too tall for the garden
The hedge has become too wide or dense
The roots are affecting structures or fencing
The hedge has become unsafe or difficult to maintain
In these situations, removing the trees allows the space to be reclaimed for a more manageable hedge, garden feature or landscaping.
Because Leylandii trees can grow very tall and dense, removal should always be carried out by experienced tree surgeons using professional equipment.
Our team specialises in Leylandii tree removal and sectional dismantling, allowing even large hedges or trees to be safely removed from residential gardens.
Leylandii Hedge Law in the UK
Leylandii hedges are one of the most common causes of neighbour disputes about hedge height.
Under the High Hedges legislation, local councils can investigate complaints if a hedge negatively affects neighbouring properties, particularly by blocking light.
In most cases, problems can be resolved through regular hedge trimming or professional reduction.
If a hedge has become extremely large or unmanageable, removal may be the most practical long-term solution.
Why Professional Leylandii Removal Is Important
Leylandii trees can grow very tall, dense and heavy, making them difficult and dangerous to remove without proper equipment.
Professional tree surgeons use specialist techniques to safely remove these trees, particularly when they are located close to houses, fences or neighbouring properties.
Our team regularly carries out Leylandii removal and reduction work, and it is one of the most common services we provide.
During removal:
Trees are carefully dismantled in sections if required
Branches are processed using a wood chipper
Woodchip is repurposed for biomass or other sustainable uses
Larger timber can often be cut into logs suitable for firewood
Once the work is complete, the site is fully cleared and the garden is left clean and tidy.
Can You Remove Leylandii Yourself?
While small hedges may be manageable for homeowners, large Leylandii trees can be extremely difficult to remove safely.
Because of their height and dense growth, attempting to cut them down without the proper equipment can be dangerous.
Professional tree surgeons have the training, climbing equipment and cutting techniques required to remove Leylandii safely, particularly in residential gardens.
Need Help with Leylandii Trees?
If your Leylandii hedge or tree has become too large, difficult to maintain, or is causing issues with neighbouring properties, professional advice can help you decide the best solution.
We specialise in Leylandii reduction and removal, and this type of work is one of the most common services we provide.
Whether your hedge needs trimming, reduction or complete removal, we can assess the situation and recommend the safest approach.
We also provide free, no-obligation quotes for all tree work.