How to Care for a Bright 'N Tight Cherry Laurel

Overview

The Bright 'N Tight variety of cherry laurel (Prunus caroliniana) has a naturally upright and narrow growth habit to 35 feet with a spread, if left unpruned, of 25 feet. The compact and uniform growth habit makes it ideal for planting against the bare walls of commercial buildings or long driveways. This evergreen grows well in conditions that are difficult for other shrubs to grow in, such as areas with poor drainage or dry or compacted soil. The shrub produces a small black fruit in the fall that is attractive to birds and other wildlife.

Step 1

Plant the Bright 'N Tight cherry laurel tree in an area that gets at least 4 hours of direct sun each day. The shrub is tolerant of some shade, but it cannot produce a thick leaf structure if planted in total shade. A well-drained location is best, but the shrub is adaptable and can survive in damp or compacted soil. However, it cannot survive in areas where the soil is saturated.

Step 2

Allow the tree to grow on its own without pruning for the first two years, then prune to shape as needed. It can be pruned into the shape of small tree with a singular trunk or into a multi-trunked shrub, depending on your taste. The shrub holds its shape well and has a medium growth rate. It only needs to be pruned for shape after the initial pruning. Because of the natural, columnar and compact shape of the Bright 'N Tight cherry laurel, be sure you need to prune it before altering the shape. You may find that the natural shape is pleasing to the eye.

Step 3

Put a 1-inch layer of mulch around the root base of the Bright and Tight cherry laurel to provide an even level of moisture.