Otto Luyken Laurel

Question

I have 5 Otto Luyken laurel shrubs that were planted the beginning of August, 1.5 months ago. They have some signs of summer mite damage, stippling of leaves, and have had shot hole, which I have treated for and they seem to be doing better. The laurel in question looked the best for a while, and even flowered after it was installed, but now it seems to be dropping leaves. Any ideas? Does it just need a good fertilize because it used up a lot of energy flowering? I’ve been watering them all 3x a week.

Answer 1

Shothole borers can infest these plants. Look for small holes in the bark that may be oozing. You may also see signs of sawdust.
Boring damage can cause twig die back.
Chemical control does not work since the borers are under the bark.
Most recommendations are to prune out infected plant material.
If the trunk is infested, you will want to remove the shrub.
The yellowing leaves could also be watering issues.

Make sure that the soil is moist but well draining. I would check the soil instead of watering on a schedule.
I would also recommend you pull the mulch back from the trunk of the plant, at least 6 inches.
Fertilizer can be applied in spring.
Here is a link to refresh you on the care requirements.

https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/ornamental/shrubs/cherry-laurel/growing-cherry-laurels.htm