If a privet hedge is no longer opaque, you are often advised to plant the privet on stock. What does this mean and why might it make sense to take this measure? When and how can you put privet on stick?
How and when should you put privet on stick?
Placing privet on a stick means shortening the height of the shrub by 2/3 and also shortening side shoots by 2/3 in order to promote strong growth and dense branches. The best time for this is spring, before the birds breed.
What does “put privet on stick” mean?
Putting a privet on a stick only means that you are radically shortening the bush, namely at the top and on the sides:
- Cut privet by 2/3 in height
- Side shoots also cut back by 2/3
- shorten in spring
- Note the breeding season of birds
If possible, all of the bush's shoots are shortened by two-thirds. Although this may be very sad at first, you were happy about the increasing growth of your privet hedge.
Nevertheless, this care measure makes a lot of sense. Your hedge will thank you with strong growth and dense branches.
When is radical pruning appropriate?
You should put a privet on a stick immediately after planting it. If you miss this point, you can do so later, although it will take longer for the hedge to become opaque.
Even a bare hedge that is very old and has not been cut frequently enough can be rejuvenated and brought back into shape by putting it on a stick.
The best time to plant privet
Early spring, shortly before new growth, is best suited. Use March and April to radically cut back the privet hedge.
At a later date you should no longer necessarily use privet on stock. It will not harm the shrub if it is cut later. However, the hedge is often used by breeding birds who are disturbed by cutting.
In many areas, radically cutting back a privet hedge during the breeding season is not allowed. During this time you may only carry out light topiary cuts.
Tip
It is better not to cut privet in a square shape, as can be seen in many gardens. It is better to let the bush taper at the top. The light then reaches the lower regions and promotes new growth of leaves and twigs.