Privet

Privet is a common and popular deciduous or evergreen shrub belonging to the olive family. It is known for its dense, upright branches and its ability to form hedges and screens.

Privet is not only an excellent hedging plant – its dense growth and versatility also make it suitable for various gardens and landscape designs. By meeting its specific soil and light requirements, you can enjoy its decorative and practical qualities.

Privet thrives in ordinary garden soil that is well-drained. It can adapt to different soil types, including sandy, loamy or clay soil. A neutral to slightly alkaline pH value between 6 and 8 is suitable for this plant. Good drainage is important to avoid root rot, especially in heavier clay soil.

Privet is a versatile plant when it comes to light conditions. It can thrive in both full sun and partial shade. A position with direct sunlight for at least 4-6 hours a day will promote denser growth and lusher foliage. However, privet is known to be relatively shade-tolerant and can also be grown in shadier areas.

A privet hedge will benefit from adding our soil conditioner 1-2 times a year (spring and possibly autumn). Suitable fertilising will promote growth, give a denser hedge and keep the green leaf colour. Our soil conditioner is 100% organic and environmentally friendly, and spreading it around the base of the plants will also help suppress weeds. 

Here are some popular types of privet:

• Common privet (Ligustrum vulgare): This species is common in gardens and can form dense, compact hedges.
• Japanese privet (Ligustrum japonicum): Known for its evergreen foliage and more upright growth.
• Oval-leaved privet (Ligustrum ovalifolium): Popular because of its dense growth and smooth, oval leaves.
• Common privet 'Atrovirens' (Ligustrum vulgare 'Atrovirens'): A variety with dark green foliage that keeps its leaves well into winter.
• Golden privet (Ligustrum ovalifolium 'Aureum'): Known for its foliage with contrasting yellow edges.

This guide is for guidance only. Landscaping and gardening is not an exact science, and a successful result can be affected by many variables, including (but not limited to): soil conditions, location, watering, temperatures, weather, application of fertiliser and mulch, and much more.