Question
Hi..!Please help...I have planted Laurels as a privacy hedge around 40 meters of them..planted oct 2010 in clay like soil..they are dying quickly and I have been told that they are not getting enough water because the large Yew tree next to them is taking everything from them..some say I should cut them in half and feed with chicken dung and water for four hours a week ?  is this going to help or should I just get railings !?
thanx
Helen

Answer
Dear Helen,

Hello, I'm known as "Coach Dave" and I am a garden expert who works for The Home Depot(The greatest home improvement store in the world), in the United States. I have experience with various Laurels.

The root systems of most Laurels are very hardy and the clay soil shouldn't be much of a problem.

As for the Yew Tree(Taxus canadensis),this tree has roots that dwell further underground than Laurels, so the actually can live in harmony.

The next question would be how often you water? Over watering is a common problem for most plants. While there is not exact rule, usually I recommend watering twice a week for about 20 minutes.

What time do you water? If you water in the evening you might have created fungus which is another common problem. I usually recommend anywhere from 5am to 5pm...no later.

The chicken dung,water, or railings will not solve your problem. If there are yellow areas on the lower leaves then over water/poor drainage is the problem.

A simple fungicide most likely is what you need.

If you feel the need to fertilize a general purpose/slow release/granular will do just fine.

A tip to also remember, if you trim off the dead branches the plant can use it's energy to help re-grow it's damaged parts.

Yours Respectfully,

Coach Dave