How to Plant a Privet Hedge

If you want privacy but prefer the softer look of greenery rather than a fence, plant a privet hedge. There are varieties that grow well in all climates. They will grow even in partial shade. The only thing they require is moist soil and regular pruning. Privet will grow into a thick, impenetrable hedge in only a few years.

Difficulty: Moderate

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Garden rake Garden shovel Garden compost Garden claw

1. Prepare the planting site. Plant privet hedges in full sun to partial shade. They prefer soil that is slightly damp, but will grow in almost any type of soil except sand. Remove any weeds and rake the surface of the soil smooth.

2. Dig all of the holes before you plant any of the privet hedge. Space plants about 12 inches apart. Make sure you plant them at least 1 1/2 feet away from a boundary such as a wall or sidewalk.

3. Improve the soil by adding a shovelful of compost to the bottom of each hole for the privet hedge. Use your garden claw to mix the compost in with the soil at the bottom of the hole.

4. Place the plant in the hole and position it so it is growing at the same level as it was in the pot. Fill the hole half way up with soil. Firm the soil around the roots.

5. Fill the hole half way up with water. Let it drain. Fill the hole with remaining soil, and firm down the surface of the soil with your foot.

6. Make a ridge of soil around the outside of the planting hole. This will create a depression in the soil to catch water. Fill this with water and let it drain. Repeat.

7. Water every other day for the first two weeks after planting. Thereafter, provide with one inch of rain per week.

Tips & Warnings

• The best time to plant a privet hedge is in early spring. Prune your privet hedge once the first year after planting.

Resources

• Find out more about privet hedges.