Description
How to plant bare root laurel
Plant bare root laurel between November and March, on a day when the soil is not frozen or waterlogged. Soak the roots for an hour or two before planting, dig a trench wide enough for the roots to spread, and set the plants about 3 per yard in a single row. Firm the soil and water well, then keep the base weed free and watered in dry spells in the first year. Do not let the roots dry out between delivery and planting: heel them into soil or keep them covered until you are ready.
When and how to prune laurel
Trim laurel with secateurs, not hedge trimmers, so the large leaves are not cut in half and left brown at the edges. Prune in late spring to early summer, and lightly again in late summer. Cut back to the shape you want, and remove any weak or damaged growth.
Cherry laurel or Portuguese laurel?
Cherry laurel (Prunus laurocerasus ‘Rotundifolia’) has large, bright glossy leaves and is the faster grower. Portuguese laurel (Prunus lusitanica) has smaller, darker leaves, is more compact and is often chosen for formal, neat hedges. Both are evergreen. See our Portuguese laurel hedging and potted laurel hedging.
Delivery and what to expect
Free delivery across Ireland and Northern Ireland. Bare root laurel ships from November, once the plants are dormant. Bare root plants look bare in winter and leaf up in spring, which is normal. Please inspect your order on delivery and contact us if there is a problem.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
How many laurel plants do I need per metre or yard? For a single row, plant about 3 laurel plants per yard, which is roughly 3 per metre. For a thicker, faster screen, use a double staggered row. Measure the length of the hedge and multiply by the number per yard or metre.
When is the best time to plant bare root laurel in Ireland? Plant bare root laurel from November to March while the plants are dormant, avoiding frozen or waterlogged ground. Potted laurel can be planted at any time of year, so choose potted if you want to plant in spring or summer.
How fast does a laurel hedge grow? Laurel grows roughly 12 to 24 inches (30 to 60cm) a year once established. Growth is fastest with regular watering in the first year and a feed in spring. A laurel hedge can reach several metres if left unpruned.
Is laurel evergreen, and is it good for privacy? Yes. Cherry laurel keeps its large glossy leaves all year, which makes it one of the best evergreen hedges for privacy and screening. It grows quickly, tolerates shade and most soils, and forms a dense screen within a few seasons.
Will laurel grow in shade? Yes. Laurel grows well in sun or shade, which makes it useful for north-facing boundaries and under trees. It does not like waterlogged ground, so improve drainage on wet sites before planting.
What is the difference between bare root and potted laurel? Bare root plants are lifted while dormant, from November to March, and cost less per plant, so they suit longer hedges. Potted plants have their roots in soil and can be planted all year, so they suit gaps and smaller hedges.
Is laurel poisonous? The leaves and seeds of laurel are poisonous if eaten, though animals generally avoid them. Keep this in mind around livestock, horses and children, and wear gloves when pruning large amounts.
Do you deliver laurel to Northern Ireland? Yes. We deliver free across Ireland, including Northern Ireland. Bare root laurel ships from November.
