If you’re planning to dig up your cherry laurel and move it to a new spot, get ready for a bit of a workout! These plants, especially the larger ones, develop a pretty serious root system that anchors them firmly into the ground. But don’t worry—I’ve got you covered. Here’s how to tackle the job and make sure your plant survives the move.
How to Dig Up Your Cherry Laurel
If you aren’t just trying to get rid of the cherry laurel but actually want to save it, you’ll need to be a little careful. The key to a successful transplant is keeping the root ball (or at least a good chunk of it) intact so it can establish itself in its new home. Grab your gear and follow these tips to get the job done right.
Tools You’ll Need:
- Pruning shears or a garden saw
- A sharp spade
- A shovel
First things first: give your cherry laurel a good trim. Cutting it back makes the whole plant much easier to handle and move. Next, draw a circle around the trunk with a radius of about two feet (60 centimeters). Dig down along this line until you hit the cherry laurel roots. Use your sharp spade to cut through the roots cleanly, leaving you with a solid, compact root ball. Carefully pry the plant out of the ground, and you’re ready to move it!
Replanting Your Cherry Laurel in Its New Home
Now, let’s talk about the new spot. Cherry laurels love a mix of soil and sand, and they generally prefer a location that isn’t in the scorching, direct sun all day long. Dig a hole or trench large enough for the root ball and mix in some compost. This gives the roots a nice nutrient boost to help them settle in. Set the plant in, fill it back up with soil, and give it a thorough watering.
After the move, keep a close eye on your watering schedule. You want to keep the soil moist, but definitely avoid “wet feet” (standing water). If the soil stays too soggy, it can lead to root rot pretty quickly. If your soil doesn’t drain well, try adding a drainage layer of gravel or sand at the bottom of the hole to help the water flow away from the roots.
