Plant 1.2 per metre
Prunus laurocerasus 'Rotundifolia,' commonly known as Cherry Laurel or English Laurel, is a popular evergreen shrub often used for hedging and as a decorative plant in gardens and landscapes. When planting potted Prunus laurocerasus 'Rotundifolia,' you can follow these guidelines:
1. Site Selection:
- Choose a location that receives full to partial sun. Cherry Laurel can tolerate some shade but grows best in sunlight.
- Ensure the site has well-draining soil.
2. Soil Preparation:
- Prepare the soil by removing weeds, rocks, and debris from the planting area.
- Loosen the soil in a wide area to a depth of at least 12 inches. Incorporate organic matter, such as compost, to improve soil fertility and drainage if necessary.
3. Planting Holes:
- Dig planting holes that are as deep as the potted root ball and slightly wider to allow room for the roots to spread.
- Space the holes according to your desired hedge density, but a typical spacing for Cherry Laurel hedges is about 2 to 4 feet apart.
4. Removing the Pot:
- Carefully remove the potted Cherry Laurel from its container, being gentle to avoid damaging the roots. If the plant is root-bound (roots circling around the root ball), gently loosen or tease the roots to encourage outward growth.
5. Planting Depth:
- Place the Cherry Laurel in the planting hole so that the top of the root ball is level with the surrounding soil surface. Ensure the plant is straight and centered in the hole.
6. Backfilling:
- Backfill the hole with soil, gently tamping it down as you go to eliminate air pockets. Water the soil periodically as you backfill to help settle it.
7. Watering:
- Water the newly planted Cherry Laurel thoroughly to ensure that the root ball is well-saturated. Continue to water regularly, especially during dry periods, to keep the soil consistently moist but not waterlogged.
8. Mulching:
- Apply a layer of organic mulch, such as wood chips or straw, around the base of the Cherry Laurel. Mulch helps retain moisture, suppress weeds, and regulate soil temperature.
9. Pruning and Maintenance:
- Prune the Cherry Laurel as needed to shape it and encourage dense growth. You can perform initial shaping and pruning at planting time and continue to maintain the hedge as it grows.
10. Fertilization: - Consider fertilizing the Cherry Laurel with a balanced, slow-release fertilizer in the spring to promote healthy growth.
With proper care, your potted Prunus laurocerasus 'Rotundifolia' should establish itself well and provide an attractive evergreen hedge or landscape plant. Monitor the plant for pests and diseases and take appropriate measures for control if needed.
