Pruning cherry laurel hedge
Advice for August in the Netherlands
This advice covers the cherry laurel hedge (Prunus laurocerasus). Other plants called 'laurel' do not automatically get the same advice.
Cherry laurel hedge — August
Light trim only
In May, June and August you can lightly keep a cherry laurel hedge (Prunus laurocerasus) in shape, as long as the weather is calm. Avoid heat or drought stress: the hedge loses a lot of moisture then and responds with scorch. Stick to shaping, not a heavy job.
Pay attention to this
- Only in calm, not too warm weather and never under drought stress.
- Biggest mistake: cutting straight through the large leaves with blunt tools, which causes brown edges.
- Other plants called 'laurel', such as bay or other laurel species, do not automatically follow this advice.
- Always allow for frost and for differences between species and positions: postpone pruning during prolonged frost or when night frost is forecast.
See exactly where to cut
With real hands-on videos in the SnoeiWijs Tuinclub.
Frequently asked questions
- When should you trim a cherry laurel hedge?
- In May, June or August, and then only lightly and in calm weather. Do not trim during heat or drought stress.
- How do I avoid brown leaf edges?
- Use sharp tools and cut through the large leaves as little as possible. Blunt tools cause brown edges.
- Does this apply to other laurels?
- No. Other species called 'laurel' do not automatically follow the same schedule; check which plant you have first.