What To Know
- To help your cherry laurel survive the winter and continue growing in the spring, there are a few things you can do.
- If you live in a cold climate, you can protect your cherry laurel from the cold by wrapping it in burlap or other protective material.
- Fertilizing your cherry laurel in winter can actually do more harm than good, as it can encourage new growth that is more susceptible to frost damage.
Cherry laurel (Prunus laurocerasus) is an evergreen shrub or small tree native to the Black Sea region of Eurasia. It is a popular choice for landscaping due to its dense, glossy foliage and ability to thrive in a variety of conditions. While cherry laurel is typically considered an evergreen, some gardeners may wonder if it continues to grow during the winter months.
Growth Patterns of Cherry Laurel
Cherry laurel is a relatively fast-growing plant, capable of adding up to 2 feet of growth per year. However, its growth rate slows down during the winter months due to the shorter days and cooler temperatures. In colder climates, cherry laurel may even go dormant, meaning that it will stop growing altogether.
Factors Affecting Winter Growth
The extent to which cherry laurel grows in winter depends on several factors, including:
- Climate: Cherry laurel is more likely to continue growing in mild climates with moderate winters. In colder climates, it is more likely to go dormant.
- Temperature: Cherry laurel can tolerate temperatures as low as -10 degrees Fahrenheit, but it will stop growing when temperatures drop below freezing.
- Daylight: Cherry laurel requires at least six hours of sunlight per day to grow. In areas with shorter winter days, it may not receive enough sunlight to continue growing.
- Water: Cherry laurel needs regular watering, even in winter. However, it is important to avoid overwatering, as this can lead to root rot.
- Fertilization: Cherry laurel does not need to be fertilized during the winter months.
Caring for Cherry Laurel in Winter
To help your cherry laurel survive the winter and continue growing in the spring, there are a few things you can do:
- Protect from Cold: If you live in a cold climate, you can protect your cherry laurel from the cold by wrapping it in burlap or other protective material. You can also build a windbreak around the plant to help shield it from the wind.
- Water Regularly: Cherry laurel needs regular watering, even in winter. However, it is important to avoid overwatering, as this can lead to root rot. Water your cherry laurel deeply once a week, or more often if the soil is dry.
- Avoid Fertilization: Cherry laurel does not need to be fertilized during the winter months. Fertilizing your cherry laurel in winter can actually do more harm than good, as it can encourage new growth that is more susceptible to frost damage.
- Prune in Late Winter: If you need to prune your cherry laurel, do so in late winter or early spring. Pruning in the fall can encourage new growth that is more susceptible to frost damage.
Signs of Winter Stress
If your cherry laurel is not getting the care it needs during the winter, it may start to show signs of stress, such as:
- Yellowing or browning leaves: This can be a sign of cold damage or root rot.
- Dropping leaves: This is a normal response to cold weather, but it can also be a sign of stress.
- Stunted growth: This can be a sign that your cherry laurel is not getting enough sunlight or water.
- Dieback: This is the death of branches or the entire plant. Dieback can be caused by a variety of factors, including cold damage, root rot, and pests or diseases.
Preventing Winter Damage
To prevent winter damage to your cherry laurel, you can:
- Choose a sheltered location: Plant your cherry laurel in a location that is protected from the wind and cold.
- Mulch around the base of the plant: Mulch will help to insulate the roots and protect them from the cold.
- Water your cherry laurel regularly: Cherry laurel needs regular watering, even in winter. However, it is important to avoid overwatering, as this can lead to root rot.
- Avoid fertilizing your cherry laurel in winter: Fertilizing your cherry laurel in winter can actually do more harm than good, as it can encourage new growth that is more susceptible to frost damage.
- Prune your cherry laurel in late winter or early spring: Pruning in the fall can encourage new growth that is more susceptible to frost damage.
The End of Winter and Beyond
As the days start to get longer and the temperatures start to rise in spring, your cherry laurel will start to grow again. With proper care, your cherry laurel will thrive and provide you with beautiful foliage for years to come.
Answers to Your Most Common Questions
Q: Is cherry laurel an evergreen?
A: Yes, cherry laurel is an evergreen shrub or small tree. However, its growth rate slows down during the winter months and it may even go dormant in colder climates.
Q: Does cherry laurel grow in winter?
A: Cherry laurel may continue to grow in winter in mild climates with moderate winters. However, its growth rate will slow down and it may even go dormant in colder climates.
Q: How can I protect my cherry laurel from winter damage?
A: You can protect your cherry laurel from winter damage by choosing a sheltered location, mulching around the base of the plant, watering it regularly, avoiding fertilization in winter, and pruning it in late winter or early spring.
