Mountain Laurel Tree Care

Mountain laurel produces delicate clusters of flowers in spring.

The fragrant flowers and extreme hardiness of the mountain laurel tree make it a desired plant in many low-maintenance landscapes. The evergreen foliage provides year-round interest and color. In spring, the tree bursts into bloom by producing a profusion of clusters of dainty, lacelike blossoms in shades of white, pink or blue.

Irrigation

Young trees require regular watering to establish well in the garden, but mature trees tolerate drier soil conditions. Constructing a watering ring around the tree at planting aids irrigation. A 4-inch-high, 2-foot-diameter ring with the trunk in the center holds enough water to fully moisten the root ball. Fill the ring with water when the top 2 to 3 inches of soil in the planting site begins to feel dry. The water leaches into the soil slowly, thoroughly moistening it. Mature laurels only require irrigation during extended dry periods.

Soil Needs

Mountain laurel trees grow well in any well-drained soil. They can't tolerate heavy clay beds that collect water or become soggy after rain or irrigation, so avoid locations that collect water. The trees grow well without additional fertilization, but a light annual application of a fertilizer formulated for flowering trees and shrubs may lead to lusher foliage and more abundant flowering. Follow package recommendations for fertilizer amount and apply the fertilizer in spring as the trees first begin to put on new growth.

Sun and Exposure

Sites that provide both full sun and partial shade provide enough light for the tree. Newly planted trees are more prone to leaf scald from too much sunlight, so some afternoon shade helps protect the mountain laurel during the hottest days of summer. The trees rarely suffer sun or heat damage once fully established. The trees also tolerate heavy winds with little to no damage, so exposure isn't a concern when planting a new mountain laurel.

Pruning

The mountain laurel doesn't require regular pruning to produce a pleasing shape or abundant flowering, but they do tolerate trimming if it's desired. Dead and damaged branch removal in late winter or early spring keeps the plant looking its best. The mountain laurel naturally grows in a shrubby form, but yearly pruning can produce a clean trunk and a more treelike appearance. Removal of the branches that grow from the base of the main trunk and the small branches that form along the trunk below the main canopy helps shape the plant into a tree form.

References

• Texas A&M Extension; Texas Mountain Laurel -- A True Texas Beauty; Jerry Parsons; March 2005
• University of Florida Extension; Sophora Secundiflora: Texas-Mountain-Laurel; Edward Gilman, et al.; November 1993