Laurel hedge turning brown

ails · Rank attained: Hazel Tree Joined: 03 Mar 2013 Posts: 13

Hi I am a new member to this site. I've just planted a laurel hedge. Plants are about two feet high. It's planted about three weeks now but some are starting to turn brown. I've read the other posts on this but I am posting a pic which hopefully will help you decide if it needs replanting, watering,food or to be supported in this wind we've been having. The hedge is planted on an exposed hilly site and clay would be quite water retentive. Hope someone can help. Smile

kindredspirit · Posted: Sun Apr 14, 2013 9:26 am Post subject:

It was that constant dessicating easterly wind that we had that has turned bits of the leaves brown.

Make sure they are kept well watered until established and they'll be fine.

If it's a windy site then that green mesh barrier is good.

ails · Rank attained: Hazel Tree Joined: 03 Mar 2013 Posts: 13

Great thank you. So relieved!!

tippben · Posted: Sun Apr 14, 2013 12:31 pm Post subject:

I agree, water loss from the leaves is the culprit. Notice how many of the brown areas correspond to physical leaf damage, which made the wind dessication worse.

Greengage · Posted: Sun Apr 14, 2013 1:51 pm Post subject:

Agree with above wind damage and shock remember we have not had rain for a while so this weekend will make up for it, I would still water them by hand if they were moine and mulch around them but not up to the stem to conserve water. even cut grass will do the trick supressus weeds and helps retain moisture.

michael brenock · Posted: Sun Apr 14, 2013 7:04 pm Post subject:

I am not so sure that the damage is due to dessication. I would opt for frost or low temperature damage. Where were the plants stored before they were planted? Laurels are very slow to react to favourable or unfavorable conditions. I would recommend a moderate cutting back during the present season.
michael brenock

ails · Rank attained: Hazel Tree Joined: 03 Mar 2013 Posts: 13

Thanks everyone. They were in pots in sheltered area outside for two - three weeks and watered regularly. They were quite pot bound by the time I planted them. I have also planted some ornamental grasses and heathers in same area. All starting to look bad!! One grass in particular has lost all its green colour. I don't know the grass is called but it doesn't feel nice if that helps anyone. Also I have a red cordyline planted in a different area that's not looking too healthy.

kindredspirit · Posted: Sun Apr 14, 2013 9:00 pm Post subject:

Heather certainly shoudn't be affected by the cold wind.

Are you over-worrying?

I'd say everything will return to normal after a mild week or two.