Table of Contents
Laurel hedges are a popular choice for creating privacy screens and decorative boundaries in gardens. To ensure your laurel hedge grows upright and remains healthy, proper training and maintenance are essential. This guide provides practical tips to help you achieve a lush, well-shaped hedge.
Understanding Laurel Growth Habits
Laurel plants are evergreens that can grow quite tall and dense. They typically reach heights of 10 to 20 feet, depending on the variety. Their growth is vigorous, and they respond well to pruning and training. Recognizing their natural growth pattern helps in guiding their development in a desired shape.
Preparing Your Laurel Hedge
Before training your hedge, ensure it is healthy and well-watered. Choose a suitable location with good drainage and plenty of sunlight. Clear weeds and debris around the base to prevent competition for nutrients. Regular fertilization promotes vigorous growth, making training easier.
Tools and Materials Needed
- Pruning shears or hedge trimmers
- Garden ties or soft twine
- Support stakes (optional)
- Measuring tape
- Ladder (for taller hedges)
Training Techniques for an Upright Growth
Start by selecting the main stems or leaders that will form the backbone of your hedge. Remove any weak or crossing branches to promote a strong, upright structure. Use garden ties or soft twine to gently guide these stems vertically, attaching them to support stakes if necessary. Regularly check and adjust ties to prevent damage to the plant.
Pruning for Shape and Health
Prune your laurel hedge annually to maintain its shape and encourage dense growth. Focus on removing dead, diseased, or crossing branches. Trim the top of the hedge to keep it level and upright. Avoid heavy pruning during the first year to allow the plant to establish a strong framework.
Maintaining a Healthy and Upright Hedge
Consistent watering, mulching, and fertilizing support healthy growth. Mulch around the base to retain moisture and suppress weeds. Apply a balanced fertilizer in early spring to promote vigorous growth. Keep an eye out for pests and diseases, treating them promptly to prevent damage.
Dealing with Common Problems
- Leggy Growth: Reduce nitrogen fertilizer and prune back to encourage bushier growth.
- Diseases: Remove affected branches and apply appropriate fungicides if necessary.
- Pest Infestations: Use organic or chemical pest control methods as needed.
Conclusion
Training your laurel hedge to grow upright and healthy requires patience, regular maintenance, and proper technique. By guiding growth early and providing consistent care, you can enjoy a beautiful, orderly hedge that enhances your garden’s appeal for years to come.