Cherry laurel is famous for being a fast grower. Because of that, some gardeners think this hardy shrub can just fend for itself without any extra feeding. But honestly? That’s not the case at all. Even a powerhouse like the cherry laurel needs a little boost at least once a year. Here’s the lowdown on how to get it right.
The Perks of Proper Fertilizing
Cherry laurel is a tough, winter-hardy evergreen. Unlike most plants that drop their leaves when the temperature dips, this shrub stays green all year round. But keeping up appearances takes a lot of energy! The plant needs a steady supply of nutrients to maintain that lush foliage. Without enough “fuel,” the leaves will eventually wilt and drop off. Plus, a well-fed cherry laurel is much better at fending off pests and diseases.
When to Feed Your Cherry Laurel
The best time to start is in early spring. You’ll want to apply your fertilizer just before the new spring growth really kicks into gear. This way, the plant can pull those nutrients straight from the soil to power its first big growth spurt of the year. If you use a high-quality slow-release fertilizer, one application might be all you need. If you’re using something more basic, you might want to feed it a few times throughout the spring and early summer.
However, you’ll want to wind things down in the second half of the year. By late summer, it’s time to stop fertilizing. Why? Because the plant needs time for its new wood to “ripen” and harden off before the frost hits. If you keep feeding it too late, the shrub will keep producing tender new shoots that will just freeze and die once winter arrives. Stopping the fertilizer helps the plant prepare for the cold months ahead.
What’s the Best Fertilizer for Cherry Laurel?
The great thing about cherry laurel is that it isn’t too picky. You can go the natural route with well-aged manure or mature compost, or grab a specialized fertilizer from the store. Even rhododendron fertilizer works wonders! Just make sure to follow the instructions on the package so you don’t overdo it.
Here are your best options:
- Rhododendron fertilizer
- Compost
- Manure
- Horn meal or horn shavings
- Mineral fertilizers (like Blue Grain/NPK)
- Ready-to-use hedge fertilizers from the garden center
Pro Tips for Different Fertilizers
Every fertilizer works a little differently. The more you know about what you’re putting in the ground, the better your garden will look. Even a budget-friendly option can give you great results if you use it correctly!
Compost and Manure
If you’ve got a compost pile going with garden scraps and clippings, you’re sitting on “black gold.” Just make sure the compost is well-rotted (usually about a year old) and broken down. The same goes for cow or horse manure—it needs to be well-aged so it doesn’t “burn” the plants. These are fantastic organic options that improve your soil over time.
Mineral Fertilizers (Blue Grain)
Mineral fertilizers (often called “Blue Grain” in Europe) are packed with nitrogen, potassium, and phosphate. They work fast and are usually pretty easy on the wallet. Since they don’t contain organic matter, they won’t improve your soil structure long-term, but they give the plant a quick boost. Just be sure to work it into the soil and give the area a good watering afterward.
Horn Shavings and Horn Meal
Made from ground animal horns, this is a classic organic fertilizer. Soil microorganisms break it down, releasing nutrients that the roots can soak up. It’s a great, steady source of food for your laurel. Just scratch it into the soil with a hand rake and let nature do the rest.
Rhododendron and Multi-Purpose Fertilizers
Since cherry laurels are evergreens, they share a lot of the same needs as rhododendrons. These specialized fertilizers are perfectly balanced to keep evergreen foliage looking deep green and healthy. You can find these at any local garden center or order them online for a convenient, all-in-one solution.
