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Privet hedge too far from fence?

#1 · 7th July 2024, 12:56 pm

Hoping for some advice please. I planted Privet hedge nr fence 2yrs ago ago 50cm from fence. It has grown very bushy outwards but not grown to fill gap at fence so have huge gap between fence and hedge. Any ideas as to how I can encourage it to grow towards fence to totally fill gap. Not sure whether planting more at back will help as its quite shaded from very tall conifer trees behind it. Any advice gratefully appreciated.

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#2 · 8th July 2024, 10:07 am

Hi @hels66

Thanks for your question and pictures. I can see your dilemma.

The problem with planting a hedge against a fence like this is that the back part of any hedge will receive the lowest light levels and struggle to grow. This, combined with a large tree line above it, makes it even harder for certain species.

While Privet will grow in shade slowly, it isn't going to fill that gap, I'm afraid. You can thicken the hedge up by taking off 1/3 of the height, though, which may help it bulk up and reduce the gap slightly. Ideally, Privet should be planted 30-40cm away from any boundary. My guide below should help.