How To Plant Cherry Laurel: A Step-by-step Guide For Lush Greenery

The cherry laurel (Prunus laurocerasus), a versatile and captivating evergreen shrub, holds a prominent place in the world of landscaping. With its glossy, dark green foliage, delicate white flowers, and ability to thrive in various conditions, it has become a popular choice for adding privacy, creating hedges, and enhancing the beauty of gardens. Whether you’re a seasoned gardener or just starting, this comprehensive guide will equip you with the knowledge and techniques to successfully plant cherry laurel and witness its transformative impact on your landscape.

1. Choosing the Right Cherry Laurel Variety

The first step towards a thriving cherry laurel is selecting the appropriate variety. With numerous cultivars available, each possessing unique characteristics, it’s essential to consider factors such as size, growth habit, and desired aesthetic.

• Size: Cherry laurels come in a range of sizes, from compact varieties like ‘Otto Luyken’ to towering specimens like ‘Novita’. Consider the available space and desired height to make an informed choice.

• Growth Habit: Some cherry laurels, like ‘Caucasica’, exhibit a columnar growth habit, while others, like ‘Rotundifolia’, have a spreading habit. Choose a variety that complements your landscaping style and intended purpose.

• Aesthetic: Cherry laurels offer a variety of foliage colors, from deep green to variegated forms with hints of gold and cream. Select a variety that aligns with your personal preferences and overall garden design.

2. Selecting the Ideal Planting Site

Cherry laurels thrive in a variety of conditions, but choosing the right planting site can greatly influence their health and vigor.

• Sunlight: Cherry laurels prefer full sun to partial shade. Aim for a location that receives at least six hours of direct sunlight daily.

• Soil: These shrubs thrive in well-drained, fertile soil with a slightly acidic to neutral pH. Avoid heavy, clay soils that can lead to waterlogging.

• Space: Consider the mature size of the chosen variety and provide adequate spacing to prevent overcrowding and ensure proper air circulation.

3. Preparing the Planting Hole

Prior to planting, it’s crucial to prepare the planting hole properly to provide the cherry laurel with the best possible start.

• Size: Dig a hole that is twice as wide as the root ball of the cherry laurel and just as deep.

• Soil Amendments: If the soil is heavy or poorly drained, amend it with organic matter such as compost or peat moss to improve drainage and fertility.

• Fertilizer: Incorporate a balanced fertilizer into the soil at the bottom of the planting hole, following the manufacturer’s instructions.

4. Planting the Cherry Laurel

With the planting hole prepared, it’s time to carefully plant the cherry laurel.

• Remove the Plant from the Container: Gently remove the cherry laurel from its container, taking care not to damage the roots.

• Loosen the Roots: If the roots are tightly bound, gently loosen them with your fingers to promote healthy root development.

• Position the Plant: Place the cherry laurel in the planting hole, ensuring that the top of the root ball is level with the surrounding soil.

• Backfill and Firm: Fill the hole with soil, tamping it down gently to remove any air pockets. Water thoroughly to settle the soil and eliminate any remaining air pockets.

5. Providing Proper Care and Maintenance

Once planted, cherry laurels require proper care and maintenance to thrive.

• Watering: Water regularly, especially during dry spells, to maintain consistently moist soil. Avoid overwatering, as this can lead to root rot.

• Fertilizing: Apply a balanced fertilizer in spring and fall to promote healthy growth and flowering. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions for the appropriate dosage.

• Pruning: Prune cherry laurels as needed to maintain their desired shape and size. Remove dead or diseased branches and trim overgrown branches to encourage new growth.

• Pest and Disease Management: Monitor cherry laurels for common pests and diseases. Take appropriate action to control infestations or infections promptly.

6. Enjoying the Beauty of Cherry Laurel

With proper care and maintenance, cherry laurels will reward you with their captivating beauty for years to come.

• Privacy Screening: Cherry laurels can be planted as a hedge to create privacy screens, blocking unwanted views and adding a touch of seclusion to your outdoor space.

• Foundation Plantings: Used as foundation plantings, cherry laurels can enhance the architectural features of your home and create a cohesive landscape design.

• Specimen Plants: As specimen plants, cherry laurels can be showcased as focal points in your garden, adding a touch of elegance and sophistication.

Wrapping Up: A Cherry Laurel Legacy of Beauty and Functionality

Planting cherry laurel is a rewarding endeavor that transforms landscapes with beauty and functionality. By following the steps outlined in this comprehensive guide, you can successfully plant and care for cherry laurels, ensuring their thriving presence in your garden for years to come.

Basics You Wanted To Know

Q: How quickly do cherry laurels grow?

A: The growth rate of cherry laurels can vary depending on the variety and growing conditions. Typically, they grow at a moderate to fast rate, adding 12 to 24 inches per year.

Q: Can cherry laurels be planted in containers?

A: Yes, cherry laurels can be grown in containers, making them suitable for patios, balconies, and small gardens. Choose a container that is large enough to accommodate the root system and provide proper drainage.

Q: What is the best time to plant cherry laurels?

A: The ideal time to plant cherry laurels is in spring or fall when temperatures are mild and the risk of frost is low. This allows the shrub to establish roots before the extreme heat of summer or the cold of winter.