double weeping Higan cherry

Portugal laurel (Prunus lusitanica) requires moderate watering, as too much water can cause root rot. Water the plant every week, providing 1-2 inches of water per week during the growing season in spring and summer. Be sure to allow the surface of the soil to dry out between waterings. During the winter, reduce watering to every 3-4 weeks as the plant enters dormancy. If you live in a hot climate, it may need more frequent watering.

Portugal laurel (Prunus lusitanica) plants grow best in full sun and require at least 6 hours of direct sunlight daily in order to thrive. When grown in less than full sun, the plants may become leggy and drop foliage. If grown in an area that receives too much sunlight, the foliage can become scorched and the plants may also become more susceptible to insect and disease damage. In the summer months, it is best to provide morning and afternoon shade to help prevent foliage damage from extreme heat and to help conserve moisture.

Portugal laurel should be pruned twice a year if you want the shrub to reach its full potential. The first pruning session should take place in late winter, just before new growth begins in early spring. During this time, thin out any overcrowded branches and remove any dead or damaged branches. You can also remove any suckers or branches that have grown out of the desired shape of the plant. The second pruning session should occur in late summer, just before the start of autumn. During this time, you can trim back any branches that have grown too tall or long, and cut any crossing or competing branches. If you want to keep the shrub smaller, then you should be more aggressive with the pruning. It is important to never prune Portugal laurel more than twice a year, as too much pruning at once can stress the plant out and cause it to produce fewer flowers and fewer berries. Additionally, make sure to use the appropriate tools when pruning and clean the blades between use to avoid the spread of disease.