What To Know
- While cherry laurel can be grown from cuttings or purchased as a young plant, it is also possible to grow it from seed.
- Place the seed starting pots or trays in a warm location, such as a sunny windowsill or a greenhouse.
- Once the cherry laurel seedlings have grown to a height of about 4 inches, they can be transplanted into individual pots or into the ground.
Cherry laurel (Prunus laurocerasus) is an evergreen shrub or small tree native to the Caucasus and Asia Minor. It is a popular choice for hedging, screening, and topiary work due to its dense, glossy foliage and ability to tolerate a wide range of growing conditions. While cherry laurel can be grown from cuttings or purchased as a young plant, it is also possible to grow it from seed. This blog post will provide you with a step-by-step guide on how to grow cherry laurel from seed.
1. Gather the Necessary Materials
Before you begin, you will need to gather the following materials:
- Cherry laurel seeds
- Seed starting mix
- Seedling pots or trays
- A plastic bag or humidity dome
- A sunny spot indoors or a greenhouse
- A watering can with a fine rose
- Fertilizer
2. Prepare the Cherry Laurel Seeds
Cherry laurel seeds have a hard outer coating that needs to be scarified before they can germinate. This can be done by nicking the seed coat with a sharp knife or by soaking the seeds in warm water for 24 hours.
3. Sow the Cherry Laurel Seeds
Once the seeds have been scarified, they can be sown in seed starting mix. Sow the seeds 1/4 inch deep and space them about 2 inches apart. Cover the seeds lightly with soil and then water them gently.
4. Provide the Cherry Laurel Seeds with Warmth and Humidity
Cherry laurel seeds need warmth and humidity to germinate. Place the seed starting pots or trays in a warm location, such as a sunny windowsill or a greenhouse. You can also cover the pots or trays with a plastic bag or humidity dome to help retain moisture.
5. Keep the Cherry Laurel Seedlings Moist
Cherry laurel seedlings need to be kept moist but not soggy. Water the seedlings regularly, allowing the top inch of soil to dry out before watering again.
6. Fertilize the Cherry Laurel Seedlings
Once the seedlings have developed their first set of true leaves, they can be fertilized with a balanced fertilizer. Fertilize the seedlings every two weeks according to the package directions.
7. Transplant the Cherry Laurel Seedlings
Once the cherry laurel seedlings have grown to a height of about 4 inches, they can be transplanted into individual pots or into the ground. When transplanting, be sure to dig a hole that is twice as wide as the root ball. Backfill the hole with soil and water the seedling thoroughly.
8. Care for the Cherry Laurel
Cherry laurel is a relatively low-maintenance shrub. It prefers well-drained soil and full sun to partial shade. Cherry laurel can also tolerate drought conditions, but it will perform best if it is watered regularly.
Wrapping Up: Nurturing Your Cherry Laurel to Flourish
Growing cherry laurel from seed is a rewarding experience that allows you to cultivate this versatile evergreen shrub from the very beginning. With patience, care, and attention to detail, you can successfully propagate cherry laurel and enjoy its beauty and functionality in your garden. Remember to provide the necessary growing conditions, maintain proper moisture levels, and fertilize regularly to ensure optimal growth and health of your cherry laurel.
FAQ
Q: How long does it take for cherry laurel seeds to germinate?
A: Cherry laurel seeds typically germinate within 4 to 6 weeks.
Q: Can cherry laurel be grown in pots?
A: Yes, cherry laurel can be grown in pots. Choose a pot that is large enough to accommodate the root system and provide good drainage.
Q: How often should I water my cherry laurel?
A: Cherry laurel should be watered regularly, allowing the top inch of soil to dry out before watering again.
