On 10 Nov 2004 18:08:26 -0800, (felder) wrote:

Howdy all.

I have a two year old privet hedge that is growing tall, but not wide.
The base of the hedge is also fairly bare. I have made several
shearing cuts, but that seems to be making it look top heavy.

The plants were 12"-18" tall when planted. The only cuts have been
shearing off new growth. Should I cut it close to the ground this
spring? I assume this would create a flush of new growth at the base
where I want it.

Any input appreciated.
-Felder

Trimming it back (by one half) will encourage it to branch out. The
proper way to trim a hedge is wider at the bottom which provides
better light and a more natural shape.