Problems With Cherry Laurel Trees

Also known as English laurel, cherry laurel (Prunus laurocerasus) is an evergreen shrub or small tree commonly grown as a specimen or hedge plant. Although tolerant of a range of conditions, cherry laurel is susceptible to some pests, diseases and cultural problems.

Pests

Common cherry laurel pests are armored and soft scale, as well as bark beetles. Control scales with horticultural oil or predatory insects. Bark beetles are difficult to treat, although pruning infested branches may lessen the problem.

Diseases

Leaf spot and shothole are two diseases that cause unsightly spots and holes in cherry laurel foliage. Remove and destroy the fallen, infected leaves and avoid getting water on the plant's foliage. Chemical control may be necessary to combat the diseases.

Culture

Cherry laurel trees may suffer from mineral deficiencies if grown in poor soil or soil that does not drain well enough. Avoid overfertilizing, especially with fertilizers high in nitrogen.

References

• Oregon State University: Information on Prunus laurocerasus
• University of California: Managing Pests in Gardens