Question
I have privets that form a hedge and grew to a height of 10' and then I cut them back to 3'.  They have recovered nicrly but I would still like the trunk shorter.  Can I safely cut them back to 18" during the winter months?  My intention is to have branches form lower to the ground and fuller.  I will keep them trimmed at 3' in height.

Thank you,  Melvin

Answer
Melvin,

Cutting the privets back this drastically can have long term effects on the plants. I never recommend cutting plants back by any more than a third each year. I would recommend taking them down gradually until you reach the height that you desire.

Good luck.
Ed Gulliksen