Privet (Liguster) isn’t just incredibly easy to care for; it’s also tough as nails when it comes to winter weather. This means it can stay right out in your garden even when the temperatures drop well below freezing. However, there are a few things you should keep in mind to make sure your hedge stays happy until spring. Here’s the lowdown on winterizing your privet.
Privet is Totally Winter Hardy
Most privet varieties are fully winter hardy. Unless you’re growing a few specific, non-native exotic types, you don’t need to worry. Hardy privet can handle icy temperatures without any special winter housing or fancy protection—it’s built to survive the chill right where it is.
Don’t Panic if Your Privet Drops Its Leaves
There’s a common misconception that privet is an evergreen. While it does hold onto its green leaves deep into the winter (the ‘Atrovirens’ variety is especially famous for staying green for a long time), almost all privet will eventually drop its foliage. This is a completely natural process, so don’t stress if your hedge starts looking a little bare—it’s just doing its thing!
Winter Care Tips for Your Privet
One thing many gardeners forget is that the ground can get surprisingly dry in the winter. Make sure to give your privet a good drink on frost-free days. Here are a few other quick tips:
- Consider laying down a layer of mulch around the base.
- Protect young plants from the harsh winter sun.
The Magic of Mulching
Adding a layer of mulch under your privet is a tried-and-true trick. It acts like a cozy blanket, protecting the roots from extreme cold and preventing the soil from freezing solid. Plus, it helps keep moisture levels steady. You can use natural garden waste like fallen leaves or grass clippings. If you lay it down in the spring, it also acts as a natural fertilizer for your privet all year long.
Protect Young Plants from Winter Sun
Don’t underestimate that winter sun! It can actually be quite harsh, especially on young plants, causing “sunburn” on those tender new shoots. Sunlight also speeds up evaporation, drying the plant out faster. Make sure your young privets have a bit of shade and plenty of water to stay hydrated.
A Heads-Up for Potted Privet
If you’re growing privet in containers on your balcony or patio, you’ll need to be a bit more careful. Because the roots are above ground, the soil in a pot can freeze all the way through, which can damage the root system. When a hard frost hits, move your potted privet to a sheltered spot or wrap the container in burlap or garden fleece to keep those roots safe.
