Pruning Cherry Laurel

ThePrunus Laurocerasus, better known as the Cress Laurel, is a popular hedge plant which often is used to screen gardens or create a green wall. This garden plant is not only perfect for forming a hedge, but can also serve as a solitary plant in a border or as a decorative potted plant. However, the Cherry Laurel does require proper care to remain beautiful and healthy. Pruning is an important part of that care. But when and how should you prune this plant? And how do you care for the Cherry Laurel after pruning? We would like to give you some handy tips in this blog.

When to prune Cherry Laurel?

The right time to prune your Cherry Laurel depends on the desired shape and the season. Generally, the best time to prune this plant is in the spring, after the worst of the cold but before growth really gets underway. This is usually around April or May. A second pruning can take place in the summer, around June or July, to keep the hedge nicely shaped and control new growth. It is important to know that pruning during flowering or in the autumn is less ideal, as this can weaken the plant and increase the risk of disease. Cherry laurel can remain vulnerable to cold even after pruning, so avoid pruning during the colder months.

How to Prune Cherry Laurel?

Pruning the Cherry Laurel can be simple, as long as you use the right technique and tools. Here are a few steps to keep your Cherry Laurel healthy and beautiful:

1. Use the right tools: Make sure you use sharp pruning shears or hedge trimmers. Dull or damaged blades can damage the plant and make pruning wounds larger than necessary.

2. Remove dead or diseased branches: Always start by removing dead, diseased, or damaged branches. This prevents the spread of diseases and promotes the health of the plant.

3. Prune into the desired shape: If you want to use the Cherry Laurel as a hedge, you can prune it in a straight line, from top to bottom. Ensure that the hedge does not become too narrow at the bottom, so that it can grow well and spread properly.

4. Ensure air circulation: Cut away some of the older branches completely to improve air circulation in the center of the plant. This prevents fungal or rot problems.

5. Do not cut off too much: Cherry laurel grows quickly, but if you prune away too much of the plant, this can lead to stress and a weakened plant. Try not to prune more than a third of the plant at a time.

6. Do not prune during flowering: As mentioned earlier, it is better not to prune during flowering so as not to disturb the plant unnecessarily.

Cherry Laurel Care after Pruning After pruning the Cherry Laurel, it is important to take good care of the plant so that it recovers quickly and grows healthy again. Here are some tips for caring for your Cherry Laurel after pruning:

Watering: Immediately after pruning, it is important to give the plant sufficient water. This helps the roots recover and promotes new growth. Ensure that the soil is well-draining so that water does not pool and the roots do not rot.

Fertilization: After pruning, you can help the Cherry Laurel by adding an organic fertilizer. This stimulates the growth of new shoots and keeps the plant healthy. Preferably use a slow-release fertilizer to avoid overfeeding the roots.

Protection against cold: If you have pruned your Cherry Laurel in the autumn or winter, protect the plant against the cold by wrapping the roots in a layer of mulch or a protective fabric.

Watch out for diseases and pests: After pruning, the plant is sometimes more susceptible to diseases or pests. Check regularly for signs of mold, aphids, or other pests. In case of infestation, it is important to intervene quickly to prevent damage to the plant.

Patience: Cherry laurel needs some time to fully recover from pruning, especially if you have removed larger branches. Patience is important, and with the right care, your Cherry Laurel will soon grow beautifully again.

With the right care and pruning, the Cherry Laurel can develop optimally, and you will enjoy its green appearance and functionality as a hedge plant in your garden for years to come.