Pruning a new private hedge

redser7

I planted a bareroot privet hedge last November. They are 0.6 - 1 meter high whips. I only want the hedge to be just over 1 meter high when it is finished. Looks like it made it through the winter, kept its leaves and there are some new buds starting. Just wondering if I should prune it at all or just leave it grow? Would it be good to give it a feed of blood, fish and bone? Thanks

wildlifeboy

I hate the way posts remain unanswered like this.I have a 2.5 year privet headge which is small but getting there..this is the first year i have gotten some good growth. I propagated mine from cuttings mostly and i am giving the a good cutting back to encourage them to spread out at the base and I am growing them in a conical shape to let as much light to the base as possible until they are sturdy enough. can you post a pic of yours so i can see what the issue is.

Sonnenblumen

Redser

a light monthly feed (FB&B is ideal) would be ideal and water in well. Growth should be strong now but I would do only light selective cuts to achieve even growth (mainly sides and occasional top shoots). Wait until hedge becomes well established ie 12-18 months before more regularing cutting/trimming will be required.

Growth should be even from base so don't allow any leggy growth to develop.

Water ground before and after feeding.;)

redser7

Thanks both. Wildlifeboy, it is not an issue as such, I just wasn't sure whether to prune at all in the first year of planting. Thanks SB, I'll continue with monthly BFB feedings, and leave it more or less alone for a while.