The privet makes a good impression not only as a hedge plant, but also as a solitary plant. If you have just planted the privet, you may be wondering how to prune the specimen. Just use the following tips.
How do I cut a privet solitaire correctly?
To prune a specimen privet, carry out topiary cuts between April and August, shorten shoots by half to encourage branching and be careful of bird nests. For dead straight shapes, use taut cords as a cutting aid.
Do I have to cut a privet solitaire?
You don't have to cut a solitaire, but youcan do so. As has already been mentioned, there are definitely good reasons for pruning plants. For example, you promote dense foliage and get a beautiful topiary. You can also use pruning to control the height of the fast-growing plant or make a so-called rejuvenation cut.
How do I cut a privet planted as a specimen into shape?
This technique is very useful to achieve the desired shape. It is often used when cutting hedge plants, but can also be useful when cutting a specimen plant. Choose a sharp cutting tool and pay attention to the following things:
- Check the sharpness of the blade
- Disinfect the blade before cutting
- Clean the blade thoroughly after cutting
How can I encourage branching by pruning privet?
Byshorteningthe shoots tohalf of their previous size, you can specifically promote branching. Privet has strong growth instincts. Here the plant differs significantly from other hedge plants such as cherry laurel. You can therefore also cut shoots of a solitaire plant back in half. The plant will then sprout again and branch out. This means that by cutting you can achieve an even denser crown on your solitaire.
When do I cut a privet solitaire?
Smaller topiary cuts are carried out fromApril to August; more severe surgery is best done in June. Basically, you should make sure that no birds nesting in the olive tree plant are disturbed when cutting. If you want to cut a solitary privet plant, you will undoubtedly notice a nest more quickly than you would if you cut a hedge. You can also simply let the solitaire grow freely and only use secateurs if there is any frost damage.
Tip
Privet is slightly toxic
Privet contains small amounts of toxins. If you want to protect yourself against possible skin contact, wear protective gloves when cutting the solitaire.
