Cherry Laurel Hedge

Cherry laurel hedging boasts a relatively fast growth rate, typically ranging between 30 and 60 centimetres per year. This makes it a popular choice for those seeking to establish a dense hedge or quickly achieve a desired height:

• Quick privacy solution: Due to its rapid growth, cherry laurel can effectively create a privacy screen within a few years.
• Fills gaps quickly: If you have gaps in an existing hedge, cherry laurel can fill them in faster compared to slower-growing hedge plants.

Here’s a breakdown of the growth rate:

• Lower end: 30 centimetres per year (around 1 foot)
• Higher end: 60 centimetres per year (around 2 feet)

Factors affecting growth rate:

• Climate: Warmer climates generally promote faster growth.
• Sunlight: Cherry laurel thrives in full sun or partial shade, with full sun exposure potentially leading to slightly faster growth.
• Soil conditions: Well-drained, fertile soil is ideal for optimal growth.
• Watering: Regular watering, especially during dry periods, is crucial for maintaining healthy growth.

While I can provide general information on trimming cherry laurel hedges, it’s important to prioritise safety due to the plant’s toxicity. Always wear gloves when handling any part of the plant to avoid skin irritation.

Here’s a general guide for trimming a cherry laurel hedge:

Before you begin:

• Timing: Ideally, prune cherry laurels in late winter (February) before new leaves emerge. This allows the plant to recover throughout spring.
• Tools: You’ll need sharp hedge shears or an electric hedge trimmer. Ensure your tools are properly maintained and in good working condition.

Trimming process:

• Start at one end: Work your way along the hedge in sections.
• Cut sides first: Maintain a desired height and shape.
• For manual shears: Use a sweeping motion from bottom to top for a clean cut.
• For electric trimmers: Follow the manufacturer’s instructions and maintain a slight tilt (around 10 degrees) for a levelled cut.
• Top shaping: After trimming the sides, shape the top of the hedge with a flat or slightly rounded form.
• Avoid excessive pruning: Never remove more than one-third of any branch at a time to prevent stressing the plant.

Yes, cherry laurel hedges are poisonous. All parts of the plant, including the leaves, berries, and stems, contain hydrocyanic acid, which is a toxin that can cause serious health problems if ingested.

Here’s a summary of the dangers of cherry laurel hedges:

• Poisonous to both humans and animals: Consumption of any part of the plant can lead to poisoning.
• Symptoms of poisoning: Nausea, vomiting, diarrhoea, dizziness, headache, and respiratory problems. In severe cases, it can be fatal.
• Children and pets are at greater risk: They are more likely to ingest the leaves or berries due to their curiosity.

Important points to remember:

• Exercise caution when handling cherry laurel hedges: Wear gloves while pruning or trimming the plant.
• Keep children and pets away from the hedge: Avoid planting cherry laurel hedges in areas where children or pets frequently play.
• Seek medical attention immediately: If you suspect that someone or a pet has ingested any part of the plant.

Alternatives to cherry laurel hedges:

• Bay Laurel: This is the only type of laurel that is safe for consumption.
• Portuguese Laurel: A non-invasive variety with lower toxicity.
• Beech hedge: A popular choice for hedging, with beautiful green foliage.

It’s important to be aware of the potential risks associated with cherry laurel hedges before planting them in your garden. If you have concerns about the safety of cherry laurel hedges, it is best to choose an alternative type of hedge.