Novita Cherry Laurel Pleached Tree

Plant Details:

• Common Name: Novita Cherry Laurel
• Botanical Name: Prunus laurocerasus ‘Novita’
• Plant Type: Evergreen
• Foliage and Flowers: Glossy, dark green leaves that are larger and more robust than other laurel varieties. Produces small, fragrant white flower spikes in spring, followed by black berries in late summer.
• Flowering Season: Spring
• Size: Typically trained on a clear stem height of 1.8 m with a pleached frame measuring 1.2 x 1.2 m
• Mature Height: Can reach up to 3.5-4 m with pleached framework
• Mature Spread: Approximately 1.5-2 m, depending on the frame size and pruning
• Growth Rate: Fast-growing; reaches full height within 3-5 years
• Light Requirements: Thrives in full sun to partial shade; tolerates deep shade
• Soil Preference: Adaptable to a range of soil types; prefers well-drained, fertile soil
• Watering Needs: Requires regular watering until established; drought-tolerant once mature
• Frost Tolerance: Hardy; tolerates cold and frost well
• Pruning: Responds well to regular pruning to maintain a neat, dense shape and pleached form
• Pest and Disease Resistance: Generally resistant to pests and diseases; occasional monitoring for powdery mildew and shot hole disease is recommended
• Recommended Usage: Ideal for creating formal screens, raised hedges, and privacy barriers in gardens and landscapes
• Origin: Grown in a nursery
• Maintenance Level: Low to moderate; requires periodic pruning and minimal care once established

Planting Guide for Novita Laurel Pleached Tree

Introduction:
The Novita Laurel (Prunus laurocerasus 'Novita') is an evergreen pleached tree known for its dense, glossy green foliage and fast growth rate, making it an excellent choice for screening and privacy hedges. When pleached, it offers a neat, elevated hedge that adds a structured and elegant look to gardens and outdoor spaces. This guide provides detailed steps on how to plant and care for your Novita Laurel Pleached Tree to ensure it grows healthy and vibrant.

1. Selecting the Right Location:

• Sunlight Requirements: The Novita Laurel thrives in full sun to partial shade. It can tolerate deep shade but may not grow as vigorously.
• Soil Type: Prefers well-drained, fertile soil that is slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0-7.5). It can adapt to a wide range of soil types, including clay, loam, and sandy soil.
• Space Considerations: Plan for a mature spread of about 1.5-2 meters and a mature height of up to 3.5-4 meters, depending on the height of the pleached frame.

2. Preparing the Soil:

• Soil Preparation: Clear the planting area of weeds, stones, and debris. Dig the soil to a depth of 30-45 cm (12-18 inches) and mix in organic matter, such as compost or well-rotted manure, to enhance soil fertility and drainage.
• Digging the Hole: Dig a hole that is twice as wide and the same depth as the tree’s root ball. This ensures the roots have enough room to spread.

3. Planting the Tree:

• Positioning: Carefully remove the Novita Laurel from its container and gently tease out the roots if they are root-bound. Place the tree in the center of the hole, ensuring it is upright and that the top of the root ball is level with the ground surface.
• Backfilling: Fill the hole with the original soil, firming it gently around the roots to remove any air pockets. Water thoroughly to help settle the soil.
• Staking: As pleached trees are often top-heavy, secure the tree with two stakes and soft tree ties. Position the stakes outside the root ball area to avoid damaging the roots.

4. Watering and Mulching:

• Watering: Water the tree well immediately after planting. Continue to water regularly during the first year, especially during dry spells, to help establish the roots. Avoid waterlogging the soil.
• Mulching: Apply a 5-7 cm (2-3 inches) layer of organic mulch, such as bark chips or compost, around the base of the tree. Keep mulch a few inches away from the trunk to prevent rot. Mulching helps retain moisture, control weeds, and regulate soil temperature.

5. Ongoing Care and Maintenance:

• Pruning: Novita Laurel pleached trees require regular pruning to maintain their pleached shape and encourage dense growth. Prune in late spring or early summer after the new growth has appeared. Trim back long shoots and remove any dead or damaged branches to maintain the desired height and shape.
• Feeding: Feed the tree with a balanced, slow-release fertilizer in early spring to promote lush, green foliage. Consider using a potassium-rich feed to encourage stronger growth.
• Pest and Disease Control: Novita Laurel is generally resistant to pests but can be susceptible to powdery mildew, leaf spot, or shot hole disease in humid conditions. Ensure good air circulation and avoid overhead watering. Treat any issues with appropriate fungicides if necessary.

6. Winter Care:

• Frost Protection: Novita Laurel is hardy and can withstand cold winters. However, young trees may benefit from some protection in extreme frost conditions using horticultural fleece.
• Check Stakes and Ties: Ensure that stakes and ties remain secure and check regularly to prevent them from causing damage to the tree as it grows.

7. Long-Term Maintenance:

• Shaping: Continue to prune annually to maintain the tree’s pleached form and encourage compact, dense foliage. This will help keep the tree looking tidy and uniform.
• Monitoring Growth: Monitor the growth of the tree regularly to ensure it does not outgrow its space. Adjust the height and width of the frame if necessary.

8. Landscaping Uses:

• Privacy Screens: Perfect for creating an elevated hedge that provides privacy while maintaining a clean look below.
• Windbreaks: Provides an effective windbreak without compromising airflow at lower levels.
• Decorative Elements: Ideal for formal gardens, patios, or as a decorative architectural element in both modern and traditional landscapes.

By following this planting guide, your Novita Laurel Pleached Tree will become a beautiful and functional addition to your garden, providing lush greenery and an elegant screen for many years to come. Proper care and regular maintenance will ensure it thrives and remains a striking feature in your landscape.