Q.Tall Privettes (15 ‘) Not Pruned In Decades Previously Blocked From Sun. How Do We Restore. Charlotte, NC
We recently removed a tree which had blocked these ligustrums. Would Like for them to fill out. They work as a privacy hedge. Thank you
Certified GKH Gardening Expert
Now that the tree is gone, your ligustrums should get more sunlight, which will help them fill out naturally. To speed things up, prune them pretty heavily to encourage bushier growth—cut just above a node or branching point. Feed them with a balanced fertilizer in early spring and keep the soil evenly moist (but not soggy). Mulching around the base will help retain moisture and suppress weeds. With good care and more sun exposure, they should thicken up nicely for that privacy hedge you’re aiming for!
https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/ornamental/shrubs/ligustrum/pruning-privet-hedges.htm
https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/ornamental/shrubs/ligustrum/growing-ligustrum-shrubs.htm
