Skip Laurels Shrubs

Skip Laurel Maintenance: From Planting to Pruning

Skip Laurels are hardy, fast-growing shrubs that respond well to basic care. Once established, they are low-maintenance and dependable, making them a popular choice for hedges, screens, and foundation plantings.

Planting Location and Soil

Skip Laurels grow best in full sun to partial shade. They tolerate shade better than many privacy shrubs, though fuller growth comes with more sunlight.

They adapt to a wide range of soils, including clay, as long as drainage is decent. The ideal soil is moist, fertile, and well-draining. Avoid planting in areas where water sits for long periods, as overly wet soil can lead to root issues.

Spacing Guidelines

Proper spacing helps Skip Laurels mature evenly and stay healthy.

• For privacy hedges: space plants 4 to 6 feet apart, center to center
• For individual shrubs or looser screens: allow more room for natural spread

Planting too close may look good at first, but it often leads to crowding and airflow problems later.

Planting Depth

Dig a hole twice as wide as the root ball and just as deep. The top of the root ball should sit level with the surrounding soil. Planting too deeply can stress the shrub and slow its establishment.

Watering Schedule

• First Year: Water regularly while the roots establish. Keep the soil evenly moist, not soggy. Deep watering is better than frequent shallow watering, as it encourages stronger root growth.
• After Establishment: Once established, Skip Laurels are moderately drought-tolerant. Water during extended dry periods, especially in hot weather or sandy soils.
• Tip: Always water at the base of the plant rather than overhead to reduce disease risk.

Mulching

Apply a 3 to 5 inch layer of mulch around the base to help retain moisture and regulate soil temperature.

• Keep mulch a few inches away from the trunk
• Refresh mulch annually as it breaks down

Mulching also helps suppress weeds and protects shallow roots.

Fertilizing

At Planting: Skip fertilizing at planting time. Instead, mix compost or organic matter into the soil to support early root development.

Ongoing Care:

• Fertilize in early spring as new growth begins
• Use a balanced, slow-release fertilizer such as 10-10-10
• Avoid late fall fertilizing, which can trigger tender growth before winter

Pruning and Shaping

Skip Laurels naturally grow dense and upright, but pruning helps control size and shape.

Why Prune:

• Maintain hedge height and width
• Encourage fuller, denser growth
• Remove damaged or dead branches

How to Prune:

• Use clean, sharp pruning tools
• Focus on light shaping rather than heavy cuts
• Never remove more than one-third of the plant at a time

For hedges, keep the base slightly wider than the top so sunlight reaches lower branches.

Best Time to Prune

• Late winter to early spring: Ideal for major shaping
• Mid-summer: Light touch-ups to maintain a clean look
• Avoid late fall: New growth may not harden before cold weather

Common Pests and Diseases

Skip Laurels are generally tough, but occasional issues can appear. Watch for:

• Shot hole disease
• Leaf spot in humid conditions
• Root rot in poorly drained soil

Good airflow, proper spacing, and correct watering prevent most problems.

Winter Care

Skip Laurels are cold-hardy, but young plants benefit from extra care.

• Mulch in late fall to insulate roots
• Brush off heavy snow to prevent branch breakage
• In windy areas, burlap screens can reduce winter burn

General Maintenance Tips

• Check soil moisture during heat waves
• Remove weeds around the base to reduce competition
• Monitor foliage color for signs of stress or drainage issues

With proper care, Skip Laurel shrubs grow into thick, polished hedges that provide year-round privacy and structure with minimal effort.