How to Grow Ligustrum Tree - Plant Care & Tips

By NorwichGardener Team   /   2024

Ligustrum tree is a plant that is native to North America. It is a deciduous tree that can grow up to 30 feet tall. The leaves of the tree are dark green and glossy. The flowers of the tree are white and fragrant. The fruit of the tree is a black berries.

How to Grow Ligustrum Tree - Plant Care & Tips

Popular name

  • Glossy privet
  • Wildlife tree
  • Hedge tree
  • Shade tree
  • Ornamental tree

Basic info

  • A ligustrum tree is a fast-growing, deciduous tree that can reach up to 30 feet in height.
  • The leaves of a ligustrum tree are oval-shaped and green, turning yellow or brown in fall.
  • The flowers of a ligustrum tree are small and white, blooming in late spring or early summer.
  • The fruit of a ligustrum tree is a small, blackberry-like drupe that ripens in late summer or early fall.
  • Ligustrum trees are native to Asia, but have been introduced to North America and Europe.
  • Ligustrum trees are often used as hedges or privacy screens due to their dense foliage.
  • Ligustrum trees are susceptible to a number of pests and diseases, including scale insects, Aphids, and powdery mildew.
  • Ligustrum trees are considered invasive in some areas of the United States.
  • Ligustrum trees are not considered to be good candidates for firewood due to their high water content.
  • Ligustrum trees are typically propagated by rooting cuttings taken from the tips of branches.

Related plant:
Ligustrum Ovalifolium Aureum

Growing Steps

  1. For ligustrum tree, first step is to choose the right tree. There are many different types of ligustrum trees, so make sure to select one that is well suited to the climate and location where it will be planted.
  2. The second step is to prepare the planting site. Ligustrum trees do best in well-drained, fertile soil. Be sure to remove any weeds or other vegetation from the area where the tree will be planted.
  3. Once the site is prepared, it is time to dig the hole for the tree. The hole should be twice as wide as the tree’s root ball and just as deep.
  4. After the hole is dug, it is time to plant the tree. Gently remove the tree from its container and place it in the hole. Backfill the hole with soil, being careful not to compact it too much.
  5. Water the tree well immediately after planting.
  6. For the first few weeks after planting, water the tree regularly to keep the root ball moist.
  7. Once the tree is established, it will need to be fertilized on a regular basis. Use a balanced fertilizer and follow the manufacturer’s directions.
  8. Ligustrum trees will need to be pruned on a regular basis to maintain their shape and size.
  9. These trees are also susceptible to pests and diseases. Watch for signs of problems and treat accordingly.
  10. With proper care, ligustrum trees will thrive and provide years of enjoyment.

Related plant:
Wax Leaf Ligustrum

Soil Condition

About soil condition, ligustrum tree like well-drained, moist, rich soil, but it is adaptable to other types of soil. If the soil is too sandy, add organic matter to help the tree retain moisture. If the soil is too clay, improve drainage by adding sand. The ligustrum tree does not tolerate salt well, so it is not suitable for planting near the ocean.

Light requirement

Not too different with other trees, the ligustrum tree needs sun to grow. However, it can tolerate some shade, so it is a good choice for areas that do not get a lot of sun. The tree will still need some sun to produce flowers and fruit, so it is best to plant it in an area that gets at least some direct sunlight.

Ideal Temperature

The temperature condition that is best for a ligustrum tree is one that is warm. They do not like to be in cold temperatures for extended periods of time. If the temperature is too cold, the tree will not be able to produce the necessary food for itself and will eventually die.

Humidity Level

Ideal humidity condition for this plant is (60-70)%. The plant can tolerate periods of low humidity, but it will cause the leaves to drop if the humidity gets too low. If the humidity is too high, the leaves will start to yellow and the plant will be more susceptible to fungal diseases.

Fertilizer Requirement

For the fertilizer, this kind of plant prefers slow-release or organic types because they help the tree to develop a strong and extensive root system. As the roots grow, they help to anchor the tree in the soil and also help to absorb water and nutrients from the soil.

Light requirement

Pruning is an important part of keeping your ligustrum tree healthy and looking its best. Pruning not only helps to control the shape and size of the tree, but can also help to remove diseased or damaged branches. When pruning, be sure to use sharp, clean pruning shears to make clean, sharp cuts.

Plant Propagation

Propagation of ligustrum is done through stem cuttings taken from young, healthy trees in late spring. The cuttings should be 6-8 inches long and have at least two leaves. Cuttings should be taken from the current season's growth and placed in rooting hormone before being inserted into a well-drained potting mix. Once the cuttings have rooted, they can be transplanted into the garden.

Growth Speed

Usually, the plant growth rate is considered fast when compared to other trees. There are a number of reasons for this including the fact that they are able to adapt to different soil and water conditions and can tolerate high levels of pavement and pollution. Additionally, they have a high tolerance for shearing and trimming, making them ideal for use in gardens and landscaping.

Basic Problems

Common problems for this kind of plant are: -Pest: Aphids, scale, mealybugs, and whiteflies can infest ligustrum trees. -Disease: Ligustrum is susceptible to several fungal diseases, including leaf spot, canker, and root rot. -Other problems: Borer problems are common in ligustrum trees.

Basics of Growing

  • Do not forget to water your ligustrum tree regularly. Check the soil moisture level often and water when necessary.
  • Fertilize your ligustrum tree every few months to help it grow strong and healthy.
  • Place your ligustrum tree in an area where it will receive plenty of sunlight.
  • Prune your ligustrum tree regularly to encourage new growth and maintain its shape.
  • Keep an eye out for pests and diseases and take action immediately if you notice any problems.
  • Train your ligustrum tree by tying branches to a support structure or staking it upright.
  • Mulch around the base of your ligustrum tree to help retain moisture and protect the roots.
  • When planting a new ligustrum tree, be sure to dig a hole that is twice as wide as the root ball.
  • Give your ligustrum tree plenty of room to grow by planting

Related Plants

  • Ligustrum ovalifolium
  • Ligustrum quihoui
  • Ligustrum robustum
  • Ligustrum sinense
  • Ligustrum vulgare
  • Ligustrum amurense
  • Ligustrum ibota
  • Ligustrum japonicum
  • Ligustrum obtusifolium
  • Ligustrum lucidum

Source:
Ligustrum ovalifolium 'Aureum' - Oregon State University
Ligustrum - NC State University
Louisiana Plant ID | Ligustrum lucidum (tree ligustrum) - LSU

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