Overview
Privet Bonsai (Ligustrum species) is a vigorous small-leaved shrub with fast growth, dense branching and good recovery from pruning. It is best suited to beginners, hedgerow-style bonsai, broom and informal upright designs. For UK growers, treat it as: Mostly outdoor, some tropical privets can be kept indoors very bright.
Placement
full sun to partial shade outdoors; indoor types need very bright light
Watering
water generously when the soil begins to dry; privet dislikes prolonged dryness in small pots
Feeding and fertilising
feed well during the growing season to support repeated pruning
Pruning and wiring
clip often; privet back-buds well and responds strongly to structural pruning
Repotting
repot young vigorous trees every 1-2 years, older trees every 2-3 years
Propagation
cuttings root readily
Pests, diseases and common issues
aphids, scale, mildew in crowded foliage and weak shoots from shade