How Fast Does Cherry Laurel Grow?
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By Paul Watmore, Director at Grasslands Nursery
Cherry laurel grows fast — typically 30–60cm a year once established — making it one of the quickest evergreen hedges for privacy. Good soil, decent light and regular watering push it to the top of that range. Here is what to expect and how to get the fastest growth.
How fast does cherry laurel grow?
Established cherry laurel (Prunus laurocerasus) puts on around 30–60cm a year. The first year after planting is slower while the roots establish; after that it speeds up noticeably. Compact varieties such as ‘Etna’ grow a little slower (20–40cm), while standard cherry laurel is at the fast end.
How long to reach 6ft (1.8–2m)?
Starting from a typical 60–90cm plant, a well-grown cherry laurel hedge can reach 1.8–2m in around 3–4 years with good aftercare — faster if you start with larger root-balled plants.
How to make cherry laurel grow faster
- Plant in autumn or spring into well-prepared soil with compost.
- Water deeply and regularly through the first two summers — the biggest single factor.
- Feed in spring and mulch to keep roots cool and moist.
- Don’t over-trim while establishing — let it gain height first.
Spacing for a quick screen
Plant cherry laurel around 60–90cm apart (roughly 1–2 per metre depending on plant size) for a screen that knits together quickly. For instant results, choose larger root-balled plants. Browse our cherry laurel hedging, and read how to plant a laurel hedge.
FAQs
How fast does cherry laurel grow?
Around 30 to 60cm a year once established, slower in the first year and slower for compact varieties like Etna (20 to 40cm).
How long does cherry laurel take to reach 6ft?
From a 60 to 90cm plant, roughly 3 to 4 years with good aftercare — quicker if you start with larger root-balled plants.
How can I make cherry laurel grow faster?
Water deeply through the first two summers, feed in spring, mulch, prepare the soil well at planting, and avoid heavy trimming while it gains height.
How far apart should I plant cherry laurel?
Around 60 to 90cm apart for a hedge that fills in quickly; use larger root-balled plants for an instant screen.
About the author: Paul Watmore is a director at Grasslands Nursery, a family-run plant nursery near Knutsford, Cheshire, growing hedging, pleached trees and specimen plants since 1984. Meet the team →