Add an annual mulch of organic matter to keep the root area moist and prevent weeds. Spread under, but not touching, the stems.
Watering should only be necessary in times of extreme drought.

Pests are not normally a problem on hedges but if they do attack forcibly wash the pests off with a hosepipe.

Rejuvenating
Some old, overgrown hedges can be rejuvenated by cutting them back severely - this works well on beech, hornbeam, hawthorn, box, holly and privet hedges, but not on conifers, except yew. Cut one side hard back in January/February before growth normally begins. Cut to about 15mm (6in) from the main stem. Feed and mulch as above. If this side grows well the following year, repeat the procedure on the other side. If not, wait until growth is active on the cut side.

With other multi-stemmed hedges you can remove some of the old wood each year to encourage new vigorous growth - but never more than one third of the plant. For conifers, rejuvenation is restricted to pulling branches across any gaps and tying in place.

For other garden upkeep projects, see Pruning Tips, Controlling Weeds and Lawn Maintenance.