Skip Laurel Vs. Cherry Laurel: Key Differences

Skip laurel and cherry laurel are both evergreen shrubs, but skip laurel usually possesses a more columnar growth habit, which is ideal for privacy hedges. Cherry laurel is susceptible to several diseases, including shot-hole disease, while skip laurel exhibits superior resistance. Gardeners often select skip laurel as a practical solution to prevent deer damage, whereas cherry laurel may require more protection, especially in regions with high deer populations. Landscapers sometimes use cherry laurel for broader screening due to its faster growth rate, though skip laurel provides a denser screen over time.

Okay, picture this: You’re dreaming of a lush, green sanctuary in your backyard, a place where privacy reigns supreme and the view is always Instagram-worthy. Enter the laureals—specifically, the evergreen Skip Laurel (Prunus laurocerasus ‘Schipkaensis’) and the classic Cherry Laurel (Prunus laurocerasus). They both promise that enviable evergreen backdrop, but choosing the right one is kinda like picking the perfect pair of jeans—it’s gotta fit just right!

Now, before you rush out and grab the first laurel you see, let’s pump the brakes for a sec. Selecting the right plant is more than just a gut feeling. It’s about understanding your specific landscaping goals and the quirky personality of your garden’s environment. Do you need a sky-high hedge to block out nosy neighbors? Or maybe just a cute little shrub to add some curb appeal? Is your garden a sunny paradise or a shady hideaway? These questions matter!

In this guide, we’re diving deep into the nitty-gritty differences between these two leafy contenders. We’re talking size, hardiness, disease resistance—the whole shebang. So, buckle up, because we’re about to spill all the laurel-y secrets.

Are you choosing between Skip Laurel and Cherry Laurel for your garden? This guide will help you decide! Think of it as your friendly neighborhood plant guru, here to help you make the best choice for your green space. Let’s get started!

Growth Habits and Size: Space Considerations

Okay, let’s talk about size. You know what they say, location, location, location – well, in gardening, it’s more like space, space, space! You wouldn’t want to plant something that ends up eating your entire yard, right? So, let’s break down how these two laurels grow and how big they actually get.

Growth Rate: How Fast Will They Take Over?

Think of Skip Laurel as the steady, reliable type. It’s not going to sprint across your yard overnight, but it will consistently grow. On average, expect a growth rate of about 6-12 inches per year. That’s manageable!

Cherry Laurel, on the other hand, is like that friend who’s always in a hurry. It’s a faster grower, clocking in at around 12-24 inches per year under ideal conditions. So, if you’re looking for a quick screen, Cherry Laurel might seem tempting, but remember, faster growth means more pruning later!

Mature Size: The Ultimate Footprint

Now, the big question: How big are we really talking?

• Skip Laurel: This one generally reaches a height of 10-15 feet and a width of 5-8 feet at maturity. Picture a nice, upright column. Pretty contained, right?

• Cherry Laurel: Hold on to your hats! Cherry Laurel can get significantly larger. We’re talking 15-30 feet tall and wide. It’s more of a broad, spreading shrub. Basically, the size of a small tree.

  • Important Note: These are estimates! The ultimate size depends on factors like sunlight, soil quality, and, of course, pruning. Which leads us to…

Pruning Power! Don’t forget, you’re the boss! Regular pruning can keep both Skip and Cherry Laurel at a more manageable size and shape. Think of it like giving them a haircut. It keeps them looking neat and prevents them from becoming unruly monsters in your yard!

Foliage and Appearance: A Visual Comparison

Alright, let’s dive into the fun part – looks! After all, your garden is a reflection of your style, and the foliage of Skip and Cherry Laurel play a huge role in the overall vibe. Think of it as choosing between a sleek modern outfit (Skip Laurel) and a classic, timeless ensemble (Cherry Laurel). Both are stylish, but in different ways.

A. Leaf Characteristics: Up Close and Personal

Let’s zoom in and inspect those leaves:

• Leaf Shape: Imagine holding a leaf in your hand. Is it more of an elongated oval, like a gently stretched egg? That’s likely the elliptical shape you’ll find on a Cherry Laurel. Skip Laurel leaves are similar but slightly more lanceolate, meaning they taper to a point, a bit like a mini spearhead. This subtle difference contributes to their distinct appearances.
• Leaf Size: Size matters, especially when it comes to foliage! Cherry Laurel generally boasts larger leaves, sometimes reaching up to 6-8 inches long, giving it a bolder, more substantial presence. Skip Laurel, on the other hand, sports leaves that are typically a bit smaller, usually around 3-5 inches. Think of it as the difference between a statement necklace and a delicate pendant.
• Leaf Color: Ah, color! Both offer lovely shades of green, but there are nuances. Cherry Laurel often has a richer, deeper green hue, almost like a perfectly polished emerald. Skip Laurel tends to be a slightly lighter, brighter green, with new growth often displaying a fresh, vibrant chartreuse color, adding a touch of spring to your garden even when it’s not spring!
• Leaf Density: Time to assess the lushness factor. Cherry Laurel is known for its incredibly dense foliage, creating a full, almost impenetrable screen. Skip Laurel is also dense but often appears a bit more open and airy, giving it a slightly more relaxed feel.

B. Overall Appearance: The Big Picture

Now, let’s step back and admire the whole plant:

• Form and Texture: Cherry Laurel has a more rounded, dense form, creating a solid wall of green. The leaves are closely packed together, giving it a smooth, almost formal texture. Skip Laurel, while still dense, has a slightly more upright and open form, with a somewhat coarser texture. Imagine the difference between a tightly clipped hedge and a more natural, slightly wilder shrub.
• Branching Patterns: Cherry Laurel tends to have more horizontal branching, creating a wider, more spreading habit. Skip Laurel, with its more upright growth, has a more vertical branching pattern. This difference in branching contributes to the overall shape and structure of the plant, influencing how it fills space in your garden.

Hardiness and Climate: Where They Thrive

Okay, let’s talk weather! You might be head-over-heels for the lush look of a laurel, but planting the wrong one in the wrong spot is a recipe for heartbreak. Think of it like trying to wear sandals in a snowstorm – you can do it, but you’re not gonna have a good time. This section is all about figuring out if Skip Laurel or Cherry Laurel will actually thrive where you live.

USDA Hardiness Zones

The USDA Hardiness Zone map is basically your plant’s zodiac sign, but instead of personality traits, it tells you the average minimum winter temperature in your area.

• Skip Laurel is generally hardy in USDA zones 6-8. This means it can handle average minimum winter temperatures between -10°F and 20°F.
• Cherry Laurel, on the other hand, is typically hardy in USDA zones 7-9. This means it prefers slightly milder winters, with average minimum temperatures between 0°F and 30°F.

What do these zones really mean? Well, if you live in zone 5, where winter temps can dip down to -20°F, Skip Laurel might struggle, and Cherry Laurel will likely be miserable. Conversely, if you’re in zone 10, both will probably be happy campers, but you might want to consider other factors like humidity and rainfall.

Climate Considerations

While hardiness zones are a great starting point, they don’t tell the whole story. Think of them as only 1 piece of the puzzle. Other climate factors can play a huge role in how well your laurel does.

• Humidity: Cherry Laurel generally prefers humid conditions, while Skip Laurel is a bit more adaptable. If you live in a super dry climate, you might need to give your Cherry Laurel extra TLC to keep it happy.
• Wind: Strong winds can dry out laurels, especially in winter. Both Skip and Cherry Laurel benefit from being sheltered from harsh winds, so consider planting them near a fence, building, or other windbreak.
• Rainfall: Both laurels like consistent moisture, but neither likes soggy soil. Make sure your planting location has good drainage to prevent root rot.
• Elevation: This can impact both sunlight intensity and temperature. Higher elevation can make hardiness zones irrelevant.

Think of your garden as its own microclimate. Is it sheltered? Does it get blasted by the afternoon sun? Understanding these nuances will help you make the best choice for your laurel and ensure it thrives for years to come.

Sunlight Requirements

Okay, let’s talk sunshine! Imagine Skip Laurel and Cherry Laurel are like us on vacation – some of us love basking in the sun all day, while others prefer a bit of shade to avoid a sunburn.

• Skip Laurel is pretty chill; it thrives in full sun (at least six hours of direct sunlight per day) but is also pretty adaptable and will do just fine in partial shade (around 4-6 hours of direct sunlight). Give it full sun, and you’ll have denser foliage and better flowering.
• Cherry Laurel, on the other hand, is more of a sun-worshiper, performing best with at least four hours of sunlight per day. It tolerates partial shade, but you might notice it gets a little leggy (that means fewer leaves at the bottom and more at the top) if it doesn’t get enough sun.

What happens if they don’t get their sun fix? If your Skip or Cherry Laurel is stuck in too much shade, you might see slower growth, fewer flowers (if any), and sparser foliage. On the flip side, if they are roasting in intense sunlight, especially in hot climates, they might experience leaf scorch. Think of it as a bad sunburn for plants.

Soil Preferences

Now, let’s dig into the dirt! (pun intended). Both Skip and Cherry Laurel are not super picky; but they do have preferences, like that friend who says they’ll eat anything but secretly hates cilantro.

Ideally, both prefer well-drained soil. This means the soil should hold enough moisture to keep the roots happy but not so much that they’re sitting in water. Think of it like a well-wrung-out sponge. Heavy clay soils that stay soggy are a no-no.

• Soil Type: They prefer loamy soils, a mix of sand, silt, and clay, but they adapt to a range of soil types as long as drainage is good.

• pH Levels: As for soil pH, both are happiest with a slightly acidic to neutral soil pH (around 6.0 to 7.0). You can test your soil pH with a simple kit from your local garden center.

If your soil is less than ideal, don’t worry! You can improve it with soil amendments.

• Soil Amendments: Mix in plenty of organic matter, such as compost or well-rotted manure, to improve drainage and fertility. For heavy clay soils, consider adding some gypsum to help break them up. If your soil is too alkaline, you can amend it with peat moss or sulfur to lower the pH. Remember to amend the soil thoroughly before planting for best results!

Watering and Drought Tolerance: Keeping Your Laurels Happy (and Hydrated!)

Let’s talk about water, the lifeblood of any garden, and how our two laurel champions – Skip and Cherry – handle it. Think of it like this: even the toughest athletes need their hydration, and your laurels are no different!

A. Watering Needs:

Imagine you’ve just brought your new Skip or Cherry Laurel home. They’re a little like babies at this point; they need extra TLC to get settled. For that first year, you’ll want to be a bit more attentive with the watering can (or hose).

• Watering Frequency: Aim for a deep watering every week or so, especially during hot, dry spells. Think of it as giving them a good, long drink rather than a quick sip.
• How to Tell if They’re Thirsty: Don’t just guess! Stick your finger a couple of inches into the soil around the base of the plant. If it feels dry, it’s time to water. If it’s still moist, hold off. Overwatering is a surefire way to make your laurel unhappy. Wilted leaves are often a sign of underwatering or overwatering, so you need to check the soil to be sure.
• Pro-Tip: Newly planted laurels love a nice layer of mulch. Mulch will help keep weeds down and retain moisture in the soil.

B. Drought Tolerance

Once your laurels are established (usually after that first year), they’ll become a bit more independent and less demanding. However, there are some important differences between Skip and Cherry Laurel when it comes to handling dry conditions.

• Skip Laurel: Is a bit of a toughie. Once established, Skip Laurel demonstrates good drought tolerance.

• Cherry Laurel: Comparatively speaking, Cherry Laurel needs more moisture and attention, especially during extended dry periods.

  • How Drought Affects Them: When laurels get too dry, they can start to show signs of stress. Leaves might turn yellow or brown, and the plant’s growth can slow down. In severe cases, prolonged drought can even lead to branch dieback or, worst case, death.

So, while both Skip and Cherry Laurel can handle some dry spells, remember to keep a closer eye on your Cherry Laurel, especially during those scorching summer months. A little extra water can go a long way in keeping them looking their best!

Disease and Pest Resistance: Common Problems – Uh Oh, Is Your Laurel Feeling a Little…Under the Weather?

Okay, so you’ve got your heart set on a luscious Laurel. Fantastic choice! But, like that one friend who always seems to catch a cold, even these evergreens can have their moments of vulnerability. Let’s talk about the pesky problems that might try to crash the party in your garden. We’re diving into disease and pest resistance – because knowledge is power (and can save your laurel from a leafy demise!).

A. Disease Resistance: When Laurels Get the “Laurel-itis”

Nobody wants a sick plant, right? Let’s size up Skip Laurel and Cherry Laurel’s defenses against some common diseases. Think of it as a plant health report card!

• Leaf Spot: Picture this – your beautiful laurel starts developing unsightly spots. Not the polka-dot chic you were going for. Both Skip and Cherry Laurels can be susceptible to various leaf spot diseases.

  • Symptoms: Look for dark spots on the leaves, sometimes with a yellow halo. Severe cases can lead to leaf drop.
  • Treatment: Remove affected leaves promptly. Improve air circulation by pruning. Copper-based fungicides can help prevent further spread.
  • Skip Laurel vs. Cherry Laurel: Skip Laurel tends to show slightly better resistance to certain leaf spot varieties compared to Cherry Laurel, giving it a slight edge in this department.

• Powdery Mildew: This one’s like someone sprinkled powdered sugar all over your plant. Not as tasty as it sounds.

  • Symptoms: A white, powdery coating appears on the leaves and stems.
  • Treatment: Improve air circulation. Apply neem oil or a fungicide specifically designed for powdery mildew.
  • Skip Laurel vs. Cherry Laurel: Cherry Laurel can sometimes be more prone to powdery mildew, particularly in humid conditions. Keep an eye out!

• Phytophthora Root Rot: This is the sneaky villain. It attacks the roots, often leading to sudden decline.

  • Symptoms: Yellowing leaves, stunted growth, and eventually, the plant wilts and dies.
  • Treatment: Prevention is key! Ensure good soil drainage. Avoid overwatering. Fungicides may offer some help in early stages.
  • Skip Laurel vs. Cherry Laurel: Both can be susceptible, but well-drained soil is the best defense for both.

B. Pest Resistance: Unwanted Guests in Your Laurel Lodge

Time to talk about the creepy crawlies. Here’s how our laurels stack up against common garden pests:

• Aphids: These tiny sap-suckers can be a real nuisance.

  • Signs of Infestation: Look for clusters of small insects on new growth. Leaves may be sticky or distorted.
  • Control Methods: Blast them off with a strong stream of water. Introduce beneficial insects like ladybugs. Insecticidal soap can also be effective.
  • Skip Laurel vs. Cherry Laurel: Both are vulnerable, but infestations are usually manageable.

• Scale: These pests look like small bumps attached to stems and leaves.

  • Signs of Infestation: Small, immobile bumps on stems and leaves. Leaves may turn yellow and drop.
  • Control Methods: Prune heavily infested branches. Horticultural oil can smother scale insects.
  • Skip Laurel vs. Cherry Laurel: Scale can be a recurring problem, especially on Cherry Laurel. Regular monitoring is important.

• Spider Mites: These tiny pests thrive in hot, dry conditions.

  • Signs of Infestation: Fine webbing on leaves, and tiny yellow or brown spots.
  • Control Methods: Increase humidity around the plant. Spray with miticide or insecticidal soap.
  • Skip Laurel vs. Cherry Laurel: Both can be affected, but proper watering and humidity can help prevent infestations.

The Bottom Line?

While neither Skip nor Cherry Laurel is completely immune to diseases and pests, both are generally resilient when planted in the right conditions and given proper care. Regular inspection, good cultural practices (like proper watering and pruning), and prompt treatment when problems arise will keep your laurel healthy and thriving!

Lifespan and Root System: Thinking Long-Term

Alright, so you’re not just planting a shrub, you’re starting a relationship, right? Like any good relationship, you need to know what you’re getting into for the long haul. That means thinking about how long your leafy friend will stick around and what’s going on beneath the surface with those roots.

How Long Will Your Laurel Last?

Let’s talk longevity! You want to know if you’re planting something for a few years or a few decades.

• Skip Laurel: These guys are in it for the long game. Expect them to stick around for 20-40 years, maybe even longer with the right care. That’s practically a lifetime in plant years!
• Cherry Laurel: Similar to the Skip Laurel, Cherry Laurels can have a lifespan ranging from 20 to 40 years, giving you decades of lush greenery if you treat them right.

Root System: What’s Happening Down Below?

Now, let’s dig a little deeper (pun intended!) and talk about the root systems. This is important because nobody wants a plant that’s going to tear up their patio or invade their neighbor’s yard.

• Skip Laurel: Skip Laurels have a fairly non-aggressive root system. They’re not known for being overly invasive, which is a big plus. The root system is moderately deep but generally well-behaved, making them safe to plant near structures, but avoid planting directly on top of utility lines to be safe!
• Cherry Laurel: Cherry Laurels tend to have a more extensive and potentially more aggressive root system than Skip Laurels. While they aren’t usually considered highly invasive, their roots can still spread out quite a bit. So, keep that in mind when planting near foundations, patios, or underground utilities.

Cultivars and Hybrids: Exploring Variety

So, you’re not quite sold on the plain ol’ Skip or Cherry Laurel, huh? You’re craving something a little…extra? I get it! That’s where cultivars and hybrids swoop in to save the day, offering a delightful array of variations on these garden staples. Think of it like choosing between vanilla ice cream and a scoop of rocky road – both are ice cream, but one’s got that certain je ne sais quoi.

Cultivars/Varieties of Cherry Laurel

Let’s dive into the wonderful world of Cherry Laurel cultivars. Now, you might be thinking, “Wait a minute, isn’t ‘Schipkaensis’ the Skip Laurel?” And you’d be right! But here’s a twist: Sometimes it’s classified as a Cherry Laurel cultivar due to its Prunus laurocerasus heritage. Confusing, I know. But that’s botany for you!

Let’s talk about some other popular Cherry Laurel cultivars, though:

• ‘Otto Luyken’: This is your go-to if you want a more compact, manageable shrub. ‘Otto Luyken’ is a dwarf variety, making it perfect for smaller gardens or areas where you don’t want a Laurel monster taking over. It boasts a dense, spreading habit and beautiful, glossy leaves. Plus, it’s known for its showy white flowers in the spring.

• ‘Compacta’: As the name suggests, ‘Compacta’ is another winner in the compact department. It’s similar to ‘Otto Luyken’ but tends to be even denser and more rounded. Think of it as the perfectly manicured Cherry Laurel – always looking sharp!

• ‘Zabeliana’: If you’re after something a little different, ‘Zabeliana’ might be your pick. It has a more graceful, arching habit than other Cherry Laurels, giving it a slightly wilder, more natural look. This cultivar also tends to be a bit more cold-hardy.

The point here is that you can tailor your Cherry Laurel choice to perfectly suit your needs. Want something small and neat? Go for ‘Otto Luyken’ or ‘Compacta’. Prefer a more relaxed, natural vibe? ‘Zabeliana’ is your friend.

Hybrids (of Skip or Cherry Laurel)

Hybrids are where things get really interesting. Unfortunately, specifically named hybrids of Prunus laurocerasus are less common in the retail market than distinct cultivars. Most of the breeding has been focused on cultivars of the species. However, keep an eye out for new introductions at your local nurseries! These cultivars are selected for specific traits like disease resistance, unique growth habits, or enhanced flowering.

Landscape Applications: Where Do These Laurels Shine?

Alright, you’ve got your laurel contenders; now, let’s figure out where to plant them! Think of your garden as a blank canvas, and these evergreens are your paintbrushes. Each excels in different roles, so understanding their strengths is key to a landscape masterpiece.

Hedging: The Green Wall Debate

Want a tidy, sculpted barrier? Or maybe something a little more au naturel? Both Skip and Cherry Laurel can be fantastic hedge material, but with a few caveats.

• Formal Hedges: For crisp, clean lines, Cherry Laurel is often the winner. It responds well to shearing and creates a dense, uniform look. Space them closer together (think 2-3 feet apart) and get ready to prune a couple of times a year to maintain that perfect hedge shape.
• Informal Hedges: Skip Laurel thrives when left a little more wild and free. They naturally have a more upright, slightly less dense habit, creating a softer, less formal screen. Space them a bit further apart (3-4 feet) and let them do their thing! A light prune now and then keeps them tidy.

Screening: Privacy, Please!

Need to block out the nosy neighbors or hide that unsightly shed? A laurel screen might be just the ticket!

• Cherry Laurel, with its denser growth habit, can create a solid, virtually impenetrable screen. Plant them about 4-6 feet apart for quick coverage.
• Skip Laurel, while not quite as dense, still provides excellent screening with a more natural look. Plant them at a similar spacing (4-6 feet) and watch them grow into a beautiful green wall.
• Pro Tip: Staggering the plants in a zig-zag pattern when planting can create an even denser and more effective screen.

Foundation Planting: Friend or Foe?

Planting near your home’s foundation can add curb appeal, but it requires some thought.

• Both laurels can work, but be mindful of their mature size. You don’t want them engulfing your house!
• Keep them at least 5-6 feet away from the foundation to allow for air circulation and prevent root issues.
• Consider: Compact cultivars are a great choice for foundation planting as they won’t outgrow the space as quickly.
• Ensure proper drainage in the planting area. Laurels like well-drained soil, and soggy conditions near your foundation are a recipe for disaster (for both the plants and your house!).

Topiary: Green Sculptures

Fancy a little garden art? Both Cherry and Skip Laurel can be trained into topiary forms, although Cherry Laurel tends to be the more popular choice due to its denser foliage and faster growth.

• Cherry Laurel: More suitable for shaping into balls, cones, or spirals due to its dense foliage.
• Skip Laurel: Can also be topiaried, but may require more patience to achieve the desired shape. Their more open habit may lend itself better to less formal, more naturalistic topiary.
• Remember: Topiary requires regular pruning to maintain its shape. Get ready to unleash your inner Edward Scissorhands!

Wildlife Value: A Laurel’s Gift to Nature

Don’t forget about our furry and feathered friends! Laurels offer several benefits to wildlife.

• Berries: Cherry Laurel produces berries that are a food source for birds (though they are toxic to humans, so keep that in mind). Skip Laurel also produces berries, but usually in lesser quantities.
• Nesting Cover: The dense foliage provides excellent nesting habitat for birds.
• Pollinators: While not a primary nectar source, laurel flowers attract some pollinators, especially early in the season.
• Planting a variety of shrubs and trees, including laurels, will create a more diverse and wildlife-friendly landscape.

So, there you have it! From hedges to habitats, laurels offer a ton of landscaping options. Choose wisely, consider your specific needs and conditions, and get ready to enjoy the beauty and benefits these evergreens bring to your garden.

11. Care and Maintenance: Keeping Them Healthy

Alright, so you’ve planted your Skip or Cherry Laurel, and you’re probably thinking, “Now what?” Don’t worry; keeping these beauties healthy isn’t rocket science. It’s more like giving them a little TLC now and then. Let’s break down how to ensure your laurel thrives.

A. Pruning: Giving a Haircut

Think of pruning as giving your laurel a haircut. It keeps things neat and encourages healthy growth. The best time to prune is usually in late winter or early spring before the new growth starts.

• Technique: Grab your trusty pruners and snip away any dead, damaged, or diseased branches. Also, shape your laurel to your liking. Want a dense hedge? Trim regularly. Prefer a more natural look? Just tidy it up a bit.
• Timing: For shaping, prune after flowering. If you’re just removing dead or diseased stuff, you can do that anytime.

B. Fertilizing: Feeding Time!

Laurels aren’t super demanding when it comes to food, but a little boost can do wonders.

• Nutrient Needs: Use a balanced, slow-release fertilizer in early spring. Look for something like a 10-10-10 or 14-14-14 mix.
• Application: Follow the instructions on the fertilizer package, but generally, you’ll sprinkle it around the base of the plant and water it in well. Don’t overdo it, or you might end up with leggy growth.

C. Watering: Staying Hydrated

Watering is crucial, especially during the first year after planting.

• Watering Needs: Water deeply but infrequently. Let the soil dry out a bit between waterings. Overwatering is a common killer, so avoid soggy soil.
• How to Check: Stick your finger a couple of inches into the soil. If it feels dry, it’s time to water. If it’s still moist, hold off. Established laurels are more drought-tolerant, but they’ll still appreciate a good drink during dry spells.

D. Mulching: The Soil’s Best Friend

Mulch is like a cozy blanket for the soil.

• Benefits: It helps retain moisture, suppresses weeds, and keeps the soil temperature consistent. Plus, it looks nice!
• Materials: Wood chips, bark, or shredded leaves are all great options. Spread a 2-3 inch layer around the base of the plant, keeping it a few inches away from the trunk to prevent rot.

E. Disease Prevention: Staying Healthy

Prevention is better than cure, right?

• Cultural Practices: Ensure good air circulation by pruning and spacing plants properly. Remove any fallen leaves or debris around the base of the plant to prevent fungal diseases.
• Treatments: If you spot signs of disease (like leaf spots), treat it promptly with an appropriate fungicide. Always follow the instructions on the product label.

F. Pest Control: Battling the Bugs

Even the healthiest laurels can attract pests from time to time.

• Identification: Keep an eye out for common pests like aphids or scale. Look for signs like sticky residue on the leaves or visible bugs.
• Management: For minor infestations, a strong blast of water from the hose might do the trick. For more serious problems, consider using insecticidal soap or neem oil. Again, follow the instructions carefully.

Potential Problems and Considerations: Forewarned is Forearmed!

Okay, let’s get real for a minute. We’ve been singing the praises of Skip and Cherry Laurels, but no plant is perfect! It’s like dating – there are always a few quirks you need to be aware of. So, before you run off and plant a whole hedge, let’s talk about some potential downsides. Think of this as your “buyer beware” section, but don’t worry, we’ll keep it light!

Toxicity: Keep the Kiddos and Pets Safe!

Alright, so here’s the deal: Cherry Laurel, the beautiful drama queen, contains cyanide compounds. Yep, you read that right, cyanide! Now, before you panic, it’s not like you can’t have it in your yard. But you do need to be smart about it. All parts of the plant, especially the leaves and seeds, can be toxic if ingested, which is why it is always recommended to use gardening gloves. So, if you have curious kiddos or pets who like to nibble on everything (we’re looking at you, Labrador!), be extra careful. Teach them not to eat the pretty leaves or berries, and maybe consider opting for Skip Laurel as a safer alternative.

What about Skip Laurel? Well, it’s not entirely innocent either! While it’s generally considered less toxic than its cherry cousin, it can still cause a tummy ache if ingested. So, same rules apply: keep the nibblers away! Always use gardening gloves.

Invasiveness: Know Your Local Ecosystem!

Okay, let’s talk boundaries, plant-style. In some regions, Cherry Laurel can be a bit of a rebel and become invasive. This basically means it spreads like wildfire and starts muscling out native plants. Not cool, Cherry Laurel, not cool!

Now, this isn’t a problem everywhere, but it’s worth checking with your local agricultural extension office to see if Cherry Laurel is considered invasive in your area. If it is, you might want to reconsider planting it, or at least be extra diligent about pruning and removing seedlings to keep it in check. Skip Laurel, on the other hand, is generally better-behaved but do still monitor for unwanted spread. So do your homework before planting!

Deer Resistance: Salad Bar or Not?

Ah, deer. Those graceful, yet incredibly hungry, creatures. Do they see your Laurel as a tasty snack? Well, it depends. Generally speaking, Laurels are moderately deer-resistant. They’re not usually a deer’s first choice on the buffet line, but if they’re hungry enough, they’ll munch on just about anything.

If you live in an area with a high deer population, you might need to take some protective measures, especially when the plants are young and vulnerable. You could try using deer repellent sprays (there are some natural ones that smell less offensive to humans), putting up fencing around the plants, or planting them near other deer-resistant plants. Think of it as building a plant-based bodyguard!

Comparative Analysis: Weighing the Pros and Cons

Okay, folks, let’s get down to the nitty-gritty! You’ve learned all about Skip Laurel and Cherry Laurel, but now it’s time for the ultimate showdown. Which one will reign supreme in your garden? It’s like choosing between a sleek sports car and a reliable SUV – both are great, but serve different purposes. Let’s weigh the pros and cons in a head-to-head comparison, shall we?

Aesthetics: Beauty is in the Eye…

When it comes to visual appeal, both laurels bring their A-game, but in slightly different ways. Cherry Laurel offers a classic, almost old-world charm with its larger, shinier leaves. It’s the plant equivalent of a perfectly tailored suit! Skip Laurel, on the other hand, boasts a more refined, slightly more upright appearance. Its leaves are a bit smaller and the overall effect is a touch more formal. Think of it as the crisp, modern blazer in your wardrobe.

The Verdict? It really depends on your personal taste and the overall style of your garden. Do you prefer a bolder, more traditional look, or something a bit more subtle and contemporary?

Maintenance Requirements: How Much TLC Do They Need?

Alright, let’s be real. Gardening isn’t always glamorous. It can involve some serious elbow grease! So, how do these laurels stack up in terms of maintenance?

Cherry Laurel, with its faster growth rate, might require a bit more frequent pruning to keep it in shape. It’s like needing regular haircuts to keep your luscious locks in check! Skip Laurel, being a bit slower growing, is generally a bit more low-maintenance in the pruning department.

Both laurels benefit from regular watering, especially when young, but once established, they’re reasonably drought-tolerant. Just remember, even tough plants appreciate a good drink now and then!

The Verdict? If you’re looking for the absolute easiest option, Skip Laurel might edge out Cherry Laurel slightly. But, with regular attention and maintenance Cherry Laurel can be very manageable.

Suitability for Different Purposes: What Are Your Landscaping Dreams?

So, what exactly are you hoping to achieve with your laurel hedge? Are you dreaming of a dense privacy screen, a neatly manicured hedge, or something else entirely?

If you’re after a quick and impenetrable privacy screen, Cherry Laurel’s faster growth rate can be a real advantage. It will fill in those gaps faster, giving you that secluded oasis you crave.

Skip Laurel, with its more upright habit and denser foliage, is a fantastic choice for more formal hedges or even as individual specimen plants. It lends itself well to shaping and can add a touch of elegance to your landscape.

The Verdict? Cherry Laurel wins for speedy screening, while Skip Laurel shines in formal settings and as a statement plant.

Cost: Let’s Talk Money

Last but not least, let’s consider the budget. Plant prices can vary depending on location, size, and the specific nursery, but generally, Skip Laurel can be slightly more expensive than Cherry Laurel, especially for larger, more mature plants.

The Verdict? If you’re on a tight budget, Cherry Laurel might be the more economical choice. However, don’t let price be the sole determining factor. Consider all the other factors we’ve discussed to make the best long-term investment for your garden.

So, there you have it! Whether you choose the Skip Laurel or the Cherry Laurel, both are fantastic options for creating a lush, green screen. Just weigh the pros and cons based on your specific needs and local conditions, and you’ll be enjoying your privacy in no time! Happy planting!