Ligustrums are known for their fast growth rate. They are considered to be extremely fast-growing shrubs and trees. In fact, some varieties of ligustrums, such as the Japanese ligustrum (Ligustrum japonicum), can grow as much as 25 inches in height annually. This rapid growth is one of the reasons why ligustrums are popular choices for hedges and privacy screens in landscaping.
I have personally experienced the fast growth of ligustrums in my own garden. When I planted a Japanese ligustrum a few years ago, it quickly established itself and started to grow vigorously. Within a short span of time, it had grown significantly taller and wider, requiring regular pruning to maintain its desired shape.
One of the advantages of ligustrums’ fast growth is that they can quickly fill in empty spaces in your garden or landscape. This can be particularly useful if you are looking to create a privacy barrier or want to add greenery to a bare area. However, it’s important to keep in mind that their fast growth also means that they can quickly become overgrown if not properly maintained.
Regular pruning is necessary to keep ligustrums in check and prevent them from becoming unruly. This is especially important if you are using them as hedges or ornamental shrubs, as you would want to maintain a neat and compact appearance. I have found that pruning ligustrums once or twice a year helps to control their growth and promote denser foliage.
It’s worth noting that ligustrums can tolerate heavy pruning, which makes them quite versatile in terms of shaping and maintaining their size. However, it’s important to prune them correctly to avoid damaging the plant. Removing no more than one-third of the plant’s overall size during a single pruning session is generally recommended to prevent stress and ensure healthy regrowth.
In addition to their fast growth, ligustrums are also known for their hardiness and adaptability. They can tolerate a wide range of soil conditions and are relatively pest and disease resistant. This makes them a low-maintenance choice for many gardeners.
To summarize, ligustrums do indeed grow fast. Their rapid growth rate makes them ideal for quickly filling in empty spaces and creating privacy barriers. However, this fast growth also necessitates regular pruning to maintain their desired shape and prevent them from becoming overgrown. With proper care and maintenance, ligustrums can add beauty and greenery to your garden or landscape.
