Cherry laurels are popular evergreen shrubs valued for their dense, glossy foliage and adaptability in various landscape settings. These plants are frequently used for hedges, privacy screens, and windbreaks, providing year-round visual interest. Proper fertilization is important for maintaining their health and promoting robust growth.
When to Fertilize
The timing of fertilization for cherry laurels depends on whether they are newly planted or established. For established cherry laurels, an annual fertilizer application is beneficial to support healthy growth. The optimal time is early spring, just before new growth emerges. This provides essential nutrients as the plant enters its active growing season.
Applying a slow-release fertilizer in the fall can be advantageous. This allows nutrients to gradually become available during the dormant winter, boosting energy reserves for strong spring growth. Avoid fertilizing in late fall or winter with fast-acting, high-nitrogen products. Such applications can stimulate tender new growth susceptible to frost damage.
For newly planted cherry laurels, deep watering immediately after planting is recommended to establish the root system. Root stimulators can encourage early root formation and reduce transplant shock. Established plants benefit from a single annual fertilization. A second, lighter application in early fall can be considered in warmer climates to strengthen the plant before winter.
What Fertilizer to Use
Selecting the appropriate fertilizer is important for cherry laurels, with various options available. Fertilizers are characterized by their N-P-K ratio: nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium. A balanced fertilizer, such as a 10-10-10 blend, works well, providing a mix of primary nutrients. Nitrogen supports leafy growth, phosphorus is essential for root development, and potassium enhances overall plant vigor and resilience.
While a balanced formula is suitable, a fertilizer with a slightly higher nitrogen content, like a 10-6-4 ratio, promotes foliage growth. Slow-release granular fertilizers are recommended for cherry laurels because they provide a steady nutrient supply over an extended period, helping prevent over-fertilization. Liquid fertilizers can be an alternative, especially if a fall application was missed, allowing for quick nutrient uptake in early spring.
Both synthetic and organic fertilizer options are available, with organic choices contributing to improved soil health. Cherry laurels prefer slightly acidic soil, thriving in a pH range of 4.5 to 7.5. Evergreen fertilizers are formulated to release acid, which helps maintain the preferred soil acidity. Alternating between an evergreen fertilizer and one for ornamental trees can provide a comprehensive nutrient profile. Conducting a soil test provides specific insights into nutrient deficiencies, guiding a precise fertilization strategy.
How to Fertilize
Proper fertilizer application ensures cherry laurels receive nutrients effectively without harm. When using granular fertilizers, spread the product evenly around the plant’s drip line, the area directly beneath the outermost branches. This zone contains the majority of the plant’s active feeder roots. Always consult the product label for the recommended dosage, as application rates vary significantly between formulations and brands.
Over-fertilization can lead to root burn and other plant damage, so adhering to label instructions is important. For liquid fertilizers, dilute the concentrate according to manufacturer’s directions before applying it to the soil. After applying any fertilizer, thoroughly water the area. This helps dissolve granular fertilizers, moving nutrients into the soil for absorption, and ensures even distribution of liquid feeds.
Watering after application also helps prevent the concentration of salts that can lead to fertilizer burn. Maintaining well-drained soil around cherry laurels is important to prevent waterlogging, which hinders nutrient uptake and overall plant health. Consistent and careful application methods contribute to the health of cherry laurel plants.
Common Fertilization Issues
Even with careful attention, cherry laurels can exhibit signs of fertilization issues. Nutrient deficiencies manifest as changes in leaf coloration or stunted growth. For instance, a lack of nitrogen can cause the entire leaf, including its veins, to turn yellow. If only the areas between the leaf veins yellow while the veins remain green, this indicates an iron deficiency. Stunted growth or less vibrant foliage can signal a general nutrient shortage.
Over-fertilization, also known as “fertilizer burn,” presents a different set of symptoms. Signs include browning of leaf tips and margins, general browning of leaves, or wilting. In severe cases, over-fertilization can lead to stunted growth or, paradoxically, a flush of weak, brittle new growth prone to breaking. A crust of fertilizer on the soil surface can indicate excessive application.
Over-fertilization occurs when the concentration of salts from the fertilizer around the roots becomes too high, making it difficult for the plant to absorb water. To address deficiencies, applying a balanced fertilizer can help correct imbalances. Preventing over-fertilization involves carefully following product labels for dosage and ensuring the soil is adequately watered after application. Proper watering practices can mitigate many plant problems, including nutrient uptake issues.