Most people think of privet as just a classic garden shrub or a privacy hedge, but here’s a pro tip: it actually does great in containers, too! Whether you’ve got a small patio or just want some greenery on your porch, growing privet in a pot is totally doable. You just need to keep a few specific care tips in mind to keep it happy.
Can You Really Grow Privet in a Pot?
The short answer is yes! Privet isn’t just for lining property lines or standing alone in the yard. It can thrive in a container or large pot as long as you give it the right setup. However, because its roots are more restricted than they would be in the ground, there are some extra steps you’ll need to take.
Finding the Perfect Spot
When it comes to picking the right location, a potted privet has the same preferences as its garden-dwelling cousins. Aim for a spot that gets full sun to partial shade. Sunny balconies or decks are usually the perfect home for these hardy shrubs.
Choosing the Right Container
Picking the right pot is half the battle. You want to make sure the size of the container matches the root ball of your plant. As a rule of thumb, never go smaller than 12 inches (30 cm) in diameter if you want your privet to grow strong. Most importantly, make sure the pot has drainage holes! Privet hates “wet feet,” and holes allow excess rainwater or irrigation to flow out so the roots don’t rot.
Daily Care and Maintenance
To keep your potted privet looking lush and green, follow these simple steps:
- Water regularly, but be careful not to overdo it—avoid standing water at all costs.
- Use regular fertilizer to make sure your plant gets all the nutrients it needs to thrive in its limited soil.
- Give it a routine trim to keep it looking tidy and maintain its shape.
- Every two to three years, repot your privet into a slightly larger container with fresh potting mix.
Winter Protection for Potted Privet
While privet is generally winter hardy and can handle frost in the ground, container plants are a bit more vulnerable. In a pot, the roots aren’t insulated by the earth, making them prone to freezing. Plus, the winter sun can actually dry the shrub out because it can’t pull moisture from frozen soil.
Before the first hard frost hits, move your pot to a sheltered spot. Often, just tucking it against a house wall is enough to keep it safe. For extra protection, place the pot on a piece of wood or Styrofoam to insulate it from the cold ground and wrap the container in garden fleece. Don’t forget to give it a little water on frost-free days so it stays hydrated all winter long!
