Root Ball Green Privet
(Ligustrum ovalifolium)

Root Ball Privet hedging is only available to buy and plant throughout November - March, but can be pre-ordered at any time outside of the bare root season.

It is a relatively fast grower (around 30cm per annum) and grows well in many conditions- although wet sites are not recommended. It can also be placed in coastal situations, though it is likely you may see some defoliation in Wintertime.

• Growth height: Average (20-40cm per year)
• Ideal Height: 2.5m+ Tall
• Soil Type: Normal
• Exposure: Exposed, Inland
• Aspect: Semi-shade, Sun
• Evergreen foliage? Yes

When you receive your Privet Root Ball plant, it will need to be planted within a couple of weeks or so and must be well-watered during this time. Do not allow the soil to dry out- this will more than likely damage the roots altogether. 

Hedge trimming must be done twice a year to maintain your Privet hedging, and this should be done firstly in early June, and then again in late September. It is very important to ensure you prune at the right time, because you do not remove the new growing shoots.

1. Prepare the soil by mixing in some compost. Dig the hole- this will have to be about twice the width of the root system, but the same depth.
2. Remove the plant from its pot by placing one hand on the base of the plant, and the other at the bottom of the pot. Wriggle the pot away gently.
3. Untangle the roots a little as they may be clumped together.
4. Place the plant into the hole, ensuring the base of the stem is level with the surface of the soil. Follow this with backfilling the hole with your soil mix, and patting down to lightly secure.
5. When you're done, thoroughly water the plant. Ensure you regularly water throughout its first year, as the plant needs plenty to be able to settle down, recover, and establish.