Cherry Laurel (Prunus laurocerasus) is a popular evergreen shrub known for its glossy, dark green leaves and dense growth. It is ideal for creating...
View full detailsCherry Laurel (Prunus laurocerasus) is a popular evergreen shrub known for its glossy, dark green leaves and dense growth. It is ideal for creating...
View full detailsLaurel Hedging offers a range of versatile, evergreen shrubs that are perfect for creating dense, attractive screens and borders. Known for their lush foliage and ability to provide year-round privacy, laurels are an excellent choice for various gardening needs. They come in several varieties, including Portuguese laurel, cherry laurel, and bay laurel, each offering unique characteristics and benefits.
Portuguese Laurel (Prunus lusitanica) Portuguese laurel features glossy, dark green leaves and produces small, fragrant white flowers in summer, followed by red berries. It is well-suited for formal hedges and screens, thriving in full sun to partial shade.
Cherry Laurel (Prunus laurocerasus) Cherry laurel is known for its large, dark green leaves and rapid growth. It produces small, white flowers in spring and black berries in late summer. Ideal for creating tall, dense hedges, it thrives in full sun to partial shade.
Bay Laurel (Laurus nobilis) Bay laurel has aromatic, dark green leaves and is often used for culinary purposes. It produces small, yellowish flowers and black berries. Bay laurel is perfect for formal hedges or as a standalone specimen, thriving in full sun to partial shade.
In the UK, laurels thrive in well-drained soil and can adapt to various soil types, including clay, loam, and sandy soils. They prefer full sun to partial shade and are relatively tolerant of different pH levels. For optimal growth, plant laurels in locations protected from strong winds, which can damage their foliage. Regular watering is essential, especially during dry periods, and a mix of soil and compost can help provide the necessary nutrients.
Laurel hedging generally grows at a moderate rate, averaging around 30 to 60 centimetres per year under optimal conditions. This growth rate makes laurels ideal for creating dense, structured hedges that offer excellent privacy and security. Regular pruning helps maintain the hedge's shape and encourages healthy, robust growth.
Water laurels regularly, particularly during dry periods and in their first few years, to support deep root establishment. Ensure soil is well-drained to avoid waterlogging.
Prune laurels in late winter or early spring to remove dead or damaged branches and to shape the plant. Light trimming throughout the growing season helps maintain the desired size and form.
Feed laurels with a balanced, slow-release fertilizer in early spring to promote healthy growth. Mulch around the base of the plant helps retain moisture and provides additional nutrients.
Dark, sunken spots on leaves, which may cause them to drop prematurely. This is often due to fungal infections.
Small, green or black insects on the undersides of leaves, causing distortion and sticky residue.
Bumps on leaves and stems, which may lead to a sticky residue and sooty mold.
White, powdery patches on leaves, which can lead to leaf distortion and premature drops.
