Privet Hedge Planting - The ultimate guide for achieving a lush green hedge

Privet hedges are a semi evergreen, fast growing deciduous shrub featuring delicate white flowers that make a great addition to any garden. Not only do they provide privacy and security, but they also add a touch of elegance to your outdoor space and are ideal for urban areas.

However, planting a privet hedge can be a daunting task if you are not familiar with the process. That's why we've put together this ultimate guide on how to plant a new privet hedge.

Whether you're a seasoned gardener or a beginner, this guide will take you through the step-by-step process of planting privet hedging. From choosing the right location to maintaining your hedge, we've got you covered. So, let's get started!

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Privet planting guide contents

Choosing a variety of Privet Hedge
Choosing the right location
Preparing the soil
Planting the privet hedge
Caring for your Privet Hedge Plants
Frequently asked questions about planting Privet Hedges

Choosing a variety of Privet Hedge

Choosing the right privet hedge variety is important, as the privet family of plants have different characteristics and growth rates. Popular privet varieties include Common Privet (Ligustrum Ovalifolium), Golden Privet (Ligustrum ovalifolium Aureum) and New Zealand Privet (Griselinia littoralis) which all feature dense foliage, making them great choice for a formal hedge.

Our high quality privet hedge plants are available as bare root plants and pot grown plants.

Choosing the Right Location

The first step in planting privet hedging is to choose the right location. Here are some things to consider when selecting the perfect spot:

Sunlight: Privet hedges thrive in full sun, so choose a location that gets at least six hours of direct sunlight per day. They will also tolerate partial shade.
Soil: Privet hedges prefer well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. Avoid planting in soil that is too sandy or clay-heavy.
Space: Consider the space you have available for your hedge. Privet hedges can grow up to 15 feet tall and 12 feet wide, so make sure you have enough space for your hedge to grow.
Climate: Privet hedges are hardy plants that can tolerate a wide range of climates. However, they do best in USDA hardiness zones 5-8.

Preparing the Soil

Once you've chosen the right location for your privet hedge, it's time to prepare the soil. Here's how to do it:

Clear the area: Remove any grass, weeds, or debris from the area where you plan to plant your new hedge. Use a shovel or a rake to loosen the soil.
Test the soil: Test your soil pH to determine whether it is acidic or alkaline. Privet hedges prefer soil with a pH between 6.0 and 7.5.
Add organic matter: If your soil is too sandy or clay-heavy, add organic matter such as compost, peat moss, or aged manure to improve soil fertility and structure.
Mix the soil: Mix the organic matter into the soil using a shovel or a tiller. Make sure the soil is well-mixed and evenly distributed.

Planting the Privet Hedge

Now that you've prepared the soil, it's time to plant your privet hedge. Follow these steps:

Dig a trench: Use a shovel to dig a trench that is twice as wide and as deep as the root ball of your privet plants.
Space the plants: Planting distances vary depending on the age and type of privet being planted, but the general rule is to space your privet plants 2-3 feet apart, depending on the variety of privet you have chosen. Young plants or smaller varieties can be planted closer together and in staggered double rows to achieve a wide thick hedge.
Plant the privets: Place the root ball of each privet plant in the trench and backfill with soil, making sure the plant is level with the ground.
Water the hedge: Water your privet hedge thoroughly after planting to ensure that the soil is moist to a depth of at least 6 inches.

Caring for your Privet Hedge Plants

Congratulations, you've planted your privet hedge! Now it's time to care for it. Here are some tips to keep your hedge healthy and looking its best:

Watering: Privet hedges need regular watering, especially during the first year after planting. Water deeply once a week to ensure the soil is moist to the depth of at least 6 inches.
Fertilising: Privet hedges benefit from regular fertilisation. Apply a balanced hedge fertiliser in early spring and again in early fall.
Pruning: Prune your privet hedge in early spring or late fall to maintain its shape and promote healthy growth. Use sharp pruning shears to remove any dead or damaged branches. For tips and advice, please see our comprehensive privet hedge pruing guide.
Pest and Disease Control: Keep an eye out for pests such as aphids, spider mites, and scale insects, as well as diseases like leaf spot and powdery mildew. Read our guide for help on identifying and solving common problems with privet hedges.

Frequently asked questions about planting Privet

What is the best time to plant a privet hedge?

The best time to plant a privet hedge is in the fall or early spring when the soil is moist and temperatures are mild.

How often should I water my privet hedge?

Privet hedges need regular watering, especially during the first year after planting. Water deeply once a week to ensure the soil is moist to the depth of at least 6 inches.

How tall and wide do privet hedges grow?

Privet hedges can grow up to 15 feet tall and 12 feet wide, depending on the variety.

How do I prune my privet hedge?

Prune your privet hedge in early spring or late fall to maintain its shape and promote healthy growth. Use sharp pruning shears to remove any dead or damaged branches.