Common Problems With Laurel Hedges (And How to Fix Them)

Laurel hedges are one of the most popular evergreen screening plants in the UK — fast-growing, reliable, and excellent for privacy. However, like all hedging plants, they can experience problems if conditions aren’t quite right.

In this guide, we cover the most common laurel hedge problems, how to identify them, and — most importantly — how to fix and prevent them so your hedge stays healthy and looking its best.

1. Yellowing Leaves on Laurel Hedges

The Problem

Yellow leaves are one of the most common issues with laurel hedging and can affect both Cherry Laurel and Portuguese Laurel.

Likely Causes

• Poor drainage or waterlogged soil

• Nutrient deficiency (often nitrogen or magnesium)

• Compacted soil restricting root growth

 

How to Fix It

• Improve drainage by incorporating organic matter

• Avoid overwatering, especially in winter

• Apply a balanced slow-release fertiliser in spring

Prevention tip: Laurel prefers moist but well-drained soil — planting preparation is key.

2. Brown or Scorched Leaves

The Problem

Brown leaf edges or scorched patches, particularly after winter or hot spells.

Likely Causes

• Wind scorch or frost damage

• Drought stress during dry periods

• Salt exposure in coastal or roadside areas

How to Fix It

• Water deeply during prolonged dry spells

• Mulch around the base to retain moisture

• Trim damaged growth in spring to encourage recovery

Good news: laurels are resilient and usually bounce back well.

3. Poor or Patchy Growth

The Problem

Your laurel hedge looks thin, uneven, or slow to fill out.

Likely Causes

• Incorrect planting spacing

• Competition from weeds or grass

• Newly planted hedges still establishing

How to Fix It

• Ensure correct spacing (typically 30–60cm depending on size)

• Keep the base clear of weeds

• Be patient — establishment can take a full growing season

 For guidance, see our Hedge Spacing and Planting a Laurel Hedge resources.

4. Holes or Marks in Leaves

The Problem

Small holes or notched leaf edges appearing during the growing season.

Likely Causes

• Vine weevil larvae (root damage)

• Slugs or caterpillars

• Minor insect feeding

How to Fix It

• Inspect roots if plants are wilting unexpectedly

• Use wildlife-friendly controls where necessary

• Encourage natural predators such as birds

Most insect damage on laurel is cosmetic rather than serious.

5. Laurel Hedge Losing Leaves

The Problem

Leaves dropping suddenly, particularly after planting.

Likely Causes

• Transplant shock

• Environmental stress (temperature swings, wind)

• Root disturbance

How to Fix It

• Water well during the first growing season

• Avoid heavy pruning immediately after planting

• Mulch to protect roots and stabilise soil temperature

This is usually temporary — new growth often appears in spring.

6. Pruning Problems (Torn or Brown Leaf Edges)

The Problem

Leaves look ragged or brown after trimming.

Likely Cause

• Cutting laurel with hedge trimmers rather than secateurs

How to Fix It

• Use sharp secateurs instead of mechanical trimmers

• Prune lightly and regularly for best results

This is especially important for Portuguese Laurel, where appearance matters most.

7. Slow Growth After Planting

The Problem

Laurel hedge isn’t growing as quickly as expected.

Likely Causes

• Newly planted rootball or pot-grown hedge settling in

• Poor soil preparation

• Lack of nutrients

How to Fix It

• Allow time — root development comes before visible growth

• Feed in spring

• Improve soil structure if needed

Once established, laurel hedges grow vigorously.

How to Avoid Laurel Hedge Problems Altogether

Most laurel hedge issues are preventable with the right preparation and care:

✔ Choose the right laurel for your needs
✔ Prepare soil thoroughly before planting
✔ Plant at correct spacing
✔ Water consistently during establishment
✔ Mulch annually
✔ Prune correctly

Choosing the Right Laurel Makes a Difference

• Cherry Laurel is ideal for fast, robust screening

• Portuguese Laurel offers a neater, more refined finish

Both perform extremely well when planted and maintained correctly. Find out more in our Cherry Laurel vs Portuguese Laurel Guide

Explore our full Laurel Hedging range
Browse Cherry Laurel and Portuguese Laurel options
Or contact us for expert advice on planting and aftercare