Hi... Thanks so much for your past help and very fast replies. I have some old privet bushes about 5 feet high. I'd like to trim them down to about 3 feet. When is the best time? Also, when is a good time to start transplanting perennials in the fall ? I have many to divide and transplant but I dont want to start too early when it is too hot and not safe for them. Thanks much... Dorian |
Glad we've been helpful in the past. You can prune your privets down now or wait until spring when new growth begins. If you prune them now they should have plenty of time to develop new growth that will harden off before cold weather sets in. As with all trees and shrubs, don't prune more than one-third of the live growth in any pruning session. If your privets need more pruning than that, do it in two sessions; one now and one in early spring. As for digging and dividing perennials, wait until they have finished flowering for the season. Late summer or early fall (Sept. in your area) would be a good time to dig and divide them, or early spring, just as new growth begins. Best wishes with your garden! |