Portuguese Laurel (Prunus lusitanica) Hedge

Discussion in 'Outdoor Gardening in the Pacific Northwest' started by SebDom, Apr 9, 2013.

  1. SebDom

    SebDom New Member

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    Victoria, Canada
    Hi all,
    We are planning on planting Portuguese Laurel along a 152 foot stretch of fence around the front of our property (we are surrounded by streets and would like our kids to have a bit of privacy while playing in the yard. Without a 'green-thumb" in sight, we are taking on a lofty goal! A few questions for all you experts out there if you have a moment...
    Our plan is to plant each 5-6 foot laurel about 8 feet apart... Is this too far? We would like instant privacy but are patient enough to understand that in order to create an actual hedge, a bit of time will be needed.
    Are there any specific planting instructions we should take into account before we take the plunge, or can we just dig, drop, and water?
    The best price that we have found in Victoria is $50 for each 5 foot laurel... Is anyone aware of more competitive pricing in Victoria?

    Thank you so much in advance for any assistance you can provide!
     
  2. Ron B

    Ron B Paragon of Plants 10 Years

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    Comparatively slow-growing, eventually quite broad. Seeds into flower beds and undeveloped land, effectively a weed in this region (although not yet as pervasive as English laurel). You would probably be better off with Pacific wax myrtle.
     
  3. ryansenechal

    ryansenechal Active Member

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    Question for you - Why Portuguese Laurel? 8' Spacing will take several years to fill in.
     
  4. SebDom

    SebDom New Member

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    Thanks very much for the replies. The Laurel was recommended to us by a landscaper... We have a ton of deer on the mountain we live on, the soil is rather poor, and many of our neighbours have the Portuguese Laurel and they look quite nice. I understand that these are somewhat of an invasive species, but for what we are looking for and what is available (that won't break the bank), these are a good option....?
    I am now thinking that perhaps 4 foot spacing is a better bet.
     

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