Japanese Privet Hedge

Japanese Privet Care Guide

One of the best plants for hedges is the Japanese Privet, botanical name Ligustrum japonicum. These evergreens produce dense, shiny, dark green foliage and sweetly fragrant white flowers in spring. This plant is a favorite for anyone that is looking to add an attractive, evergreen privacy screen so that they can block unwanted views in style. These are also an excellent shrub for topiaries to create formal and fanciful gardens. Don’t let a lack of space keep you from adding a splash of green to your property - you can also use them as a small tree that can fit in any size yard!

How to Water Japanese Privet

Japanese Privet can withstand drought once established. However, during prolonged dry spells, they can grow better with some irrigation. When there is a lack of rainfall, give the plants about an inch of water every week. And, while they can appreciate moderate amounts of water, it is not a good idea to have the roots sitting in puddles. To water, deep soak around the root ball. Install emitters about one and a half feet from the trunk. If using a water hose, set the hose on a slow trickle so that it can thoroughly saturate the root ball. Be sure not to over water and that there is no standing water.

How to Fertilize Your Japanese Privet

For best results, apply Moon Dust three times a year. So that you can remember easier, we recommend fertilizing with Moon Dust on Labor Day, Memorial Day, and Valentine’s Day. Apply Moon Juice every month. Those that live in Arizona and Nevada should supplement with our Soil and Water Conditioner because the water in these states is high in salt. You can purchase these beneficial fertilizers at any of our nursery locations.

How to Trim Your Japanese Privet

Since Japanese Privet can grow so fast, pruning can help keep them under control. We recommend pruning in the springtime after it blooms. That said, feel free to prune any time of the year. If you want the perfect smaller tree for a patio, prune the lower limbs. If you have a young Japanese Privet, prune them upward so that they can develop sturdy trunks and branches. Allow the sunlight to reach the lower branches by trimming the foliage from the top. And, if you love the look of a formal garden, shape them as necessary.

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