A laurel hedge is a popular choice for gardeners looking to create a beautiful and practical boundary. Laurel hedges were a common sight in gardens of the past, and they are making a comeback as more people embrace their neighbourly charm. Planting a laurel hedge may seem like a daunting task, but with some careful preparation and a little bit of know-how, you can create a stunning hedge that will be the envy of your neighbours.
The first step in planting a laurel hedge is to dig a hole where you want to put your hedge. The size of the hole will depend on the size of the laurel plants you are planting. If you are planting bare-root laurels, you will need to dig the hole deeper and wider than if you are planting container-grown laurels. It’s also a good idea to dig a trench along the fence line where you will be planting your laurels. This will make it easier to position the plants and ensure that they are all in a straight line.
Before you start planting, it’s a good idea to prepare the soil. Laurel hedges prefer well-draining soil, so if your soil is heavy or clay-like, you may need to improve the drainage. You can do this by adding organic matter, such as compost or well-rotted manure, to the soil. This will help to break up the soil and improve its drainage. If you have a couple of faq’s for your hedge, including when to plant and how much space each plant needs, now is the time to research them.
Once the hole and soil are ready, it’s time to plant your laurel hedge. If you are planting bare-root laurels, you will need to soak the roots in water for a couple of hours before planting. This will help to prevent the roots from drying out. If you are planting container-grown laurels, you can skip this step. To plant the laurels, make a hole in the soil that is wide and deep enough to accommodate the rootball. Place the plant in the hole, making sure that it is positioned at the same depth as it was in the container. Fill in the hole with soil, firming it gently around the roots. Leave a small depression around the base of the plant to catch water.
Once your laurel hedge is planted, it’s important to give it some ongoing care to ensure that it grows well. Water the hedge regularly, especially during dry spells, to help it establish and encourage root growth. Mulch around the base of the plants with organic matter, such as bark chips or compost, to help retain moisture and suppress weeds. If your hedge is in a windy or exposed location, you may need to stake the plants to give them some support. Trim the hedge in late spring and early autumn to keep it in shape and encourage bushy growth.
Laurel Hedging and Its Ideal Spacing
When it comes to planting a laurel hedge, there are a few important things to consider, one of which is the spacing between the plants. Laurel hedging, also known as laurocerasus, is a popular choice for many gardeners due to its attractive dark green foliage and its ability to thrive in various conditions.
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For laurel hedging, it is recommended to space the plants about 4 to 5 feet apart, or twice the width of their mature size. This spacing allows the laurel plants enough room to grow and develop without being crowded, ensuring that they can survive and thrive for years to come.
Spacing the plants correctly is important for a number of reasons. First, it allows the plants to receive adequate sunlight and air circulation, which is important for their overall health. It also prevents the laurel hedge from becoming too thick and dense, which can trap particulates and prevent proper air flow.
The ideal spacing also allows easier access for ongoing care and maintenance, such as pruning and hedgetrimmer use. It is important to regularly prune and trim the laurel hedge to keep it in shape and prevent it from becoming overgrown. Pruning should be done once or twice a year, depending on how fast the plants grow.
When planting a laurel hedge, it is important to prepare the area properly. Start by digging a trench at least 18 inches deep and wide. This will give the laurel plants enough space to establish their roots and grow. Make sure to remove any grass or weeds from the area, as they can compete with the laurel plants for nutrients and water.
When planting the laurel plants, it is best to start with smaller, established ones rather than larger field-grown specimens. Smaller plants are often better able to adapt to their new surroundings and establish themselves more quickly. They also tend to suffer less transplant shock and are less likely to suffer from diseases like honeyfungus.
Once the plants are in the ground, make sure to firm the soil around the roots, and water them well. Laurel hedging plants prefer well-draining soils, so sandy or loamy soils are ideal. Heavy clay soils can be improved by adding organic matter to help with drainage. Water the plants regularly, especially during dry spells.
Laurel hedging is known for its ability to re-shoot from old wood, so if a plant becomes overgrown or damaged, it can often be rejuvenated by cutting it back hard to a lower point. However, it is still best to regularly prune and trim the laurel hedge to keep it in shape and prevent it from becoming overgrown.
Overall, spacing the laurel plants correctly is crucial for the success of the hedge. By following these guidelines and giving the plants the space they need, you can ensure that your laurel hedge will grow beautifully and provide a wonderful, sheltered area in your garden.
How to Plant a Laurel Hedge
Planting a laurel hedge is a quick and easy way to create a beautiful green barrier in your garden. Laurels are one of the most popular choices for hedge plants, as they are fast-growing, evergreen, and provide excellent privacy and shelter.
Before you begin, there are a few things to consider:
1. Species and Spacing
Choose the type of laurel hedge that suits your needs best. There are several species to choose from, including the common cherry laurel (Prunus laurocerasus) and Portuguese laurel (Prunus lusitanica). Consider the height and width of the mature plant when deciding on spacing. As a general rule, space the plants about 2 to 4 feet apart to allow enough room for them to grow.
2. Soil and Drainage
Laurel hedges prefer well-draining soil. Make sure the ground is prepared by removing any grass or weeds and loosening the soil with a shovel or fork. If your soil is heavy clay or prone to waterlogging, consider improving drainage by adding organic matter or creating a trench at the base of the hedge.
3. Rootballed or Bare Root
Laurel hedging can be purchased as either rootballed or bare root plants. Rootballed laurels are grown in a field and have their roots wrapped in a burlap sack, making them easier to transplant. Bare root laurels are typically smaller and cheaper, but they need to be planted while they are dormant, usually in late autumn or early spring.
Planting the Laurel Hedge:
1. Start by digging a trench along the area where you want to plant the hedge. The trench should be at least twice as wide and just as deep as the laurel’s rootball or bare roots.
2. Place the laurel plants in the trench, making sure to space them evenly. If you are using rootballed plants, make sure the top of the root ball is level with the soil surface. For bare root plants, spread the roots out evenly in the trench.
3. Backfill the trench with soil, gently firming it down around the roots. Water the newly planted hedge thoroughly to settle the soil and ensure good root-to-soil contact.
4. After planting, it is important to water the laurel hedge regularly, especially during dry periods. Water deep enough to reach the roots and make sure the soil stays evenly moist. However, be careful not to overwater, as excessive moisture can lead to root rot.
5. Laurel hedges need regular pruning to keep them in shape. You can trim them once or twice a year, in spring and early autumn. This will encourage dense growth and help maintain a neat appearance.
Troubleshooting and Care:
In general, laurel hedges are low-maintenance plants. However, there are a few common problems you may encounter:
Pests and Diseases: Laurels are generally healthy plants but can be susceptible to pest infestations, such as aphids or scale insects. Regularly inspect your hedge for signs of pests and take appropriate action if necessary.
Poor Growth: If your laurel hedge is not growing as expected, check for any issues with sunlight, watering, or nutrient deficiencies. Laurels typically prefer a sheltered spot with at least partial sunlight and well-draining soil. Ensure they are receiving enough water and consider fertilizing with a balanced slow-release fertilizer if needed.
Re-shoot from the Base: Laurels have the ability to re-shoot from their base if they become overgrown or damaged. If this happens, prune the laurel back hard and it should quickly re-grow from the base.
FAQ’s
Q: How long does it take for a laurel hedge to grow?
A: Laurels are fast-growing hedges and can reach their desired height within a few years, depending on the species and growing conditions.
Q: How often should a laurel hedge be watered?
A: Newly planted laurel hedges need to be watered regularly, especially during dry spells, to help them establish. Once established, they are fairly drought-tolerant, but watering during prolonged dry periods is still recommended.
Q: Should I prune my laurel hedge in winter?
A: Laurel hedges can be pruned in early autumn or late winter/early spring. Avoid pruning during frosty weather, as it may damage the new growth.
Q: How tall can a laurel hedge grow?
A: The height of a laurel hedge depends on the species and how often it is trimmed. Some species, like the common cherry laurel, can grow up to 20 feet tall if left untrimmed.
Remember to regularly visit your laurel hedge to ensure it stays healthy and well-maintained. With proper care and attention, your laurel hedge will provide you with a beautiful and functional addition to your garden.
