How to Plant Cherry Laurel Trees

Cherry laurel trees are a popular choice for landscapers due to their stunning foliage, beautiful blooms, and ease of care. If you're looking to add one of these trees to your landscape, here are some tips on planting cherry laurel trees:

1. Choose the right location

Cherry laurel trees prefer a sunny or partial shade location with well-draining soil. Avoid planting them in areas with standing water or in soil that gets compacted easily. Also, keep in mind that these trees can grow up to 40 feet tall and wide, so make sure you have enough space for them to grow.

2. Prepare the soil

Before planting, make sure to amend the soil with compost or well-rotted manure to improve drainage and provide nutrients for the tree. Also, remove any rocks, weeds, or debris from the planting area.

3. Dig the planting hole

Use a shovel to dig a hole that's twice as wide as the root ball and just as deep. Loosen the soil around the edges of the hole to help the roots establish themselves more easily.

4. Plant the tree

Gently remove the tree from its container and loosen any tangled roots. Place the tree in the center of the hole and backfill with soil, making sure to tamp down gently to remove air pockets. Water the tree thoroughly after planting to help settle the soil.

5. Mulch the planting area

Add a layer of mulch around the base of the tree to help retain moisture and suppress weeds. Make sure to keep the mulch away from the trunk to prevent rot.

6. Water and fertilize as needed

Water the tree regularly to keep the soil moist, but not waterlogged. Cherry laurel trees also benefit from fertilization in the spring and fall, using a balanced fertilizer with equal parts nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium.

7. Prune as needed

Cherry laurel trees do not require a lot of pruning, but if needed, prune in the winter or early spring to remove dead or crossing branches. Be sure to use clean and sharp pruning tools to prevent damage to the tree.

Following these simple steps can help ensure the successful planting and growth of a beautiful cherry laurel tree in your landscape.