Ligustrum species/Privet Species Guide
There are many species of Privet that have good potential for bonsai but it is the following three species that are commonly used;
L. ovalifolium /Oval Leaf Privet, Ligustrum vulgare/Common Privet, L. sinense.
Ease of Cultivation 9/10 Suitablity and Ease for Bonsai Styling 8/10
Position Full sun or shade, Privets are very tolerant of both full sun in the Summer and quite deep shade. Privet are fully hardy and only require additional frost protection when temperatures drop below -10°C
Repotting Annually in Spring as new buds extend; use a basic soil mix.
Pruning Trim to shape through the growing season, remove overlarge leaves and shoots with overlong internodes. Hard prune during the late Winter or early Spring before new growth starts. Wiring can be carried out anytime, though Spring-Summer is best.
Propagation Sow seed outside in Autumn or Spring. Take semi-ripe cuttings in Summer or hardwood cuttings in Winter. Air-layerings can be taken in late-Spring.
Pests and Diseases Aphids, leaf spot, scale insects, leaf miners, thrips, wilt.
For more detailed information please visit the main Bonsai4me.com website (not mobi)
Copyright © 2006 Bonsai4me and Harry Harrington.