Does Ligustrum make a good hedge?
Landscapers often opt for the Ligustrum Sunshine Privet because it is non-invasive and versatile. Its upright growth habit makes it ideal for containers or pruned as a topiary. Its rounded shape makes it perfect for hedges or foundation plantings. Privet, Ligustrum species, is an invasive, flowering, deciduous shrub. Various privet species are commonly used as hedges in residential and commercial landscapes. Some privet species have spread into understory forests and roadsides.Ligustrum do not require pruning, however respond well to it for shaping purposes or to form shaped hedges or very attractive small trees. Light pruning of Ligustrum to remove a stray or damaged branch can be performed any time of year.Ligustrum shrubs do not need to be pruned, but they can withstand severe pruning with no ill effects. So if you want to control the height of a privet hedge feel free to trim those babies as much as you like. Simply trim up your bushes to the shape you like with one exception.Reaching a mature height of 8 to 12 feet with a spread of 6 to 8 feet, Waxleaf Ligustrum is fast-growing and requires occasional pruning to maintain its desired shape. While not considered as invasive as some other privets, it does readily reseed, so periodic removal of unwanted seedlings may be necessary.
When should Ligustrum be pruned?
Heavy pruning to reduce the size or to tree form your Ligustrum should be performed in late winter, while the plant is dormant. Use a sharp pair of bypass hand pruners to selectively remove stray or damaged branches. Make your cut at a point along the branch just above the main form of the plant. Prune Ligustrum plants during late winter or early spring, before new growth. This allows time for regrowth to become established before the next growing season. Light pruning can take place in late summer if necessary, but avoid heavy pruning that will cause stress to the plant going into winter.As the weather starts cooling down in autumn, your Ligustrum will start slowing down too. This is an evergreen plant, so as the name suggests, it won’t lose its leaves over winter.Ligustrum can be grown in full sun or part shade. A minimum of 4 to 5 hours of direct sunlight is recommended for best foliage density and flowering. Start by digging your planting hole at least two to three times as wide and no deeper than the rootball of your Ligustrum plant. The wider the hole the better.
How often do you water a Ligustrum?
In very hot conditions (30’c+) Ligustrum can close down and stop growing. Watering – During summer (growing season) it is important to ensure that the plants do not dry out. Watering should take place every day, preferably during the evening and care should be taken to avoid wetting the leaves. Fertilizing Your Ligustrum Shrubs To ensure healthy growth, you should fertilize your plant twice a year – in spring and late summer. To do this, use 0.
How long does it take for Ligustrum to grow?
However, on average, green privet (ligustrum ovalifolium) hedges grow at a rate of around 30-60cm (1 to 2 feet) per year. With proper care, including regular watering, pruning and feeding, privet hedges can establish quickly and fill out nicely within a few growing seasons. How far apart should you plant ligustrum? Plant howardi and wavy leaf privet about 4-5 feet apart for a privacy hedge and 7-8 feet apart for showcasing individual plants. Plant dwarf ligustrum, curly leaf privet, 3 feet apart for privacy.