I have planted many Portuguese Laurel's in my garden...some are growing tremendously, dark green leaves, picture perfect! Others that are located in a different spot are not growing, turning yellow (all the leaves)...now what is interesting to me is that these are planted in front of a holly bush that sits in the neighbors yard...the holly bush is looking awful too. It actually always was looking awful which is why I planted the P.L. in the first place. I have 8 plants that look so yellow and sick. I wouls greatly appreciate any helpful advice you can provide to me. Many, many thanks for your time!
Need to figure out what is wrong with that spot. Too wet? Too dry? Nutrient deficiency? Honey fungus infestation? Note that Prunus lusitanica has spread into undeveloped land in and near towns and cities in this region, additional planting should probably be discontinued. I am not seeing as many of these on most sites as I am ivy, holly, and English laurel, but plenty of them are popping up here and there.
Thanks Ron! Do you think a congested root ball could be the issue? I'm worried that it's rock hard as I dug around the Laurel, my shovel hit what I thought was a rock. No rock to be found, I am wondering if it was the root ball.
That would be "too dry". If it was field grown in a fine-textured soil it may have dried out since it was dug up and be repelling water.
Should I just fertilize and water the Laurels? See what happens? Thanks for all of you help...so appreciative! T
Treatment depends on ailment. If too wet or too dry correcting moisture situation is what's needed. If rootbound roots need to be opened up...and so on. Since both the laurel and the holly are weeds in this region it might be as well to start over with something else anyway. If site turns out to be on the damp side native Pacific wax myrtle could be successful (if not too shady).
