How To Grow Cherry Laurel Shrubs
Plant Guide
Cherry Laurels, botanically referenced as 'Prunus laurocerasus,' are popular evergreen shrubs loved for their easy-going nature, fast-growing habits, and stunning lustrous foliage that persist year-round.
If you are looking for a landscape staple to take your yard to the next level, look no further than the Cherry Laurel! As sweet-smelling spikes of white blooms protrude in the spring you will once again be reminded why this is one of the most well-loved shrubs on the market right now!
These shade tolerant, deer-resistant shrubs are ideal for foundation plantings, privacy shrubs and as an attractive backdrop to balance out more showy shrubs.
Ground Rules
Light
Cherry Laurels are not too picky when it comes to their sun preferences. Tolerating a wide range of lighting conditions, Cherry Laurel Shrubs grow in full sun, partial sun, and even full shade!
Water
Water your Cherry Laurel frequently to keep a consistent moist soil, but be careful not to have a constantly saturated soil.
Soil
The most important factor in your soil medium for Cherry Laurels is proper drainage. A well-draining, fertile, slightly acidic soil is ideal for these shrubs to thrive.
Food
Applying a well-balanced fertilizer to your shrubs in the growing months of spring and summer! Espoma Bio-Tone Starter Plus provides the perfect amount of nutrients to your plant.
Temperature
Although hardy to the elements, Cherry Laurels do not grow well in conditions of frost. The ideal temperature for Cherry Laurels is between 59 and 68 degrees Fahrenheit.
Toxicity
Cherry Laurels are considered toxic to humans, as well as cats, dogs and horses. If ingested please seek emergency health services immediately.
Mulch
Mulch is a great way to conserve water while reducing the growth of weeds around your shrubs. Use a 2-3 inch layer of mulch around the base of the plant, being careful to avoid the trunk.
Planting Process
- Dig a hole no deeper than the existing soil in the pot. Typically this will be 8 to 10 inches deep on a standard three-gallon pot.
- Carefully remove the Cherry Laurel from its container, gently loosen its roots, and carefully place it in the planting hole so that you can see at least 1 inch of the root ball above ground level.
- Mix some peat moss or leaf compost into the soil from the hole and begin backfilling. Avoid covering the existing root ball with soil when planting; this could lead to the death of the shrub if planted too deep.
- Water the plant after planting and be sure not to rush this process. If you water too fast, most water will run off and not soak into the root zone.
Cherry Laurel Shrubs For Sale Online
| Type | Height | Hardiness Zone |
|---|---|---|
| Otto Luyken Cherry Laurel | 4-6 feet | 6-9 |
| Chestnut Hill Cherry Laurel | 3 to 4 feet | 6-10 |
| Skip Cherry Laurel | 6 to 10 feet | 6-9 |
| Zabeliana Cherry Laurel | 3 to 5 feet | 6-9 |