Using bark mulch is a fantastic way to give your cherry laurel the best possible growing conditions. In this post, I’ll walk you through why mulch is such a game-changer and how to use it effectively to keep your plants happy for the long haul.
How Bark Mulch Boosts Your Soil
Cherry laurel is generally pretty low-maintenance, but it does have a few specific needs to stay looking its best. Since it’s an evergreen, it keeps those beautiful green leaves all year round, which means it needs a steady supply of nutrients and just the right amount of moisture. That’s exactly where bark mulch comes in.
First off, mulch is a pro at moisture control. The bark acts like a sponge, soaking up water and then slowly releasing it back into the soil for the plant to drink up. This helps prevent the soil from getting packed down too tightly. Plus, it acts as a buffer, helping to prevent standing water so you don’t have to worry about root rot.
Mulch is also your best friend when it comes to long-term fertilizing. It holds onto nutrients and prevents them from washing away all at once. Instead, it feeds the roots slowly and steadily, giving your laurel that “slow-release” nourishment it loves.
The Right Way to Apply Mulch to Your Cherry Laurel
To get started, simply spread the bark mulch on the surface around the base of your cherry laurel. I recommend covering an area about two feet (half a meter) wide around the trunk. Make sure you cover the spots where you usually water or apply fertilizer. Think of the mulch as the foundation for your plant’s entire “diet.”
The Big Benefits of Bark Mulch:
- Keeps the soil nice and loose
- Stores moisture and releases it as the plant needs it
- Ensures a slow, steady delivery of nutrients
You can use bark mulch under a long hedge or even to help out a cherry laurel in a container. Just a heads-up: it’s not the best choice for bonsai. The bark is usually way too coarse for those shallow bonsai pots!