Full Standard Laurel Trees

What are Full Standard Trees?

At Harrod Outdoors, we characterise full standard laurel trees as trees with a clear and straight trunk topped by a well-formed canopy of branches. Our full standard trees typically have a trunk height of 180 cm or more, depending on the tree’s maturity and natural growing habits.

Training Full Standard Laurel Trees

Laurel trees do not naturally grow as full standard trees. They are meticulously trained to achieve this form. The process begins with selecting young trees and consistently pruning the lower branches to encourage a clear trunk while promoting upper growth to form a rounded canopy. Typically, it takes about 3 to 5 years to train a Laurel tree into a full standard form. This involves regular pruning and shaping to maintain the desired structure, ensuring the tree develops a symmetrical and attractive canopy.

Why Choose Laurel Trees?

Full standard Laurel trees are popular in garden design for several reasons. Their elevated canopy creates an open space beneath the tree, perfect for underplanting with flowers or ground cover plants. The symmetrical shape and clear trunk provide a formal, elegant appearance that enhances the visual appeal of any landscape. Additionally, the canopy height allows for better air circulation and light penetration, benefiting the overall garden environment. These trees also serve as impressive focal points in lawns or large flower beds.

Popular Varieties for Full Standard Training

Several Laurel varieties are ideal for training into full standard forms. Cherry Laurel (Prunus laurocerasus), known for its dense, glossy foliage, creates a lush, green canopy that remains vibrant year-round. Novita Laurel stands out for its robust growth and disease resistance, making it a durable choice for full standard forms. Spotted Laurel (Aucuba japonica) offers variegated leaves with striking yellow spots, adding unique visual interest. Gentia Laurel provides compact growth and dark green leaves, perfect for smaller gardens. Etna Laurel features an upright growth habit and vibrant green foliage, while Zebalinia showcases variegated leaves with striking white and green patterns.

Common Questions About Laurel Trees

1. How fast do Laurel trees grow?
Laurel trees, especially Cherry Laurel and Novita Laurel, are known for their rapid growth, typically adding up to 2 feet per year under optimal conditions.

2. Are Laurel trees suitable for hedging as well?
Yes, Laurel trees are highly versatile and can be used for both hedging and as full standard trees, offering privacy and aesthetic appeal in various forms.

3. How do you maintain Full Standard Laurel trees?
Regular pruning is essential to maintain their shape and prevent them from becoming overgrown. Prune them at least once a year, preferably in late spring or early summer.

4. Can Full Standard Laurel trees be grown in containers?
While they can be grown in large containers, Laurel trees prefer being planted in the ground where they can establish a more extensive root system.

5. Are Laurel trees evergreen?
Yes, Laurel trees are evergreen, retaining their foliage throughout the year and providing year-round greenery.

Using Full Standard Laurel in Landscaping

These trees offer flexibility in garden design. They are perfect for lining pathways, creating formal garden entrances, or serving as standalone specimens in lawns or large flower beds. Their clear trunks and elevated canopies bring order and symmetry to garden designs, enhancing the overall aesthetic. Renowned gardens in the UK, such as Kew Gardens and Hampton Court Palace, use similar full standard trees to add structure and elegance.

Conclusion

Full standard Laurel trees from Harrod Outdoors provide a stunning and practical solution for enhancing your garden or landscape. Whether you choose the lush Cherry Laurel, the robust Novita Laurel, the unique Spotted Laurel, the compact Gentia, the upright Etna, or the striking Zebalinia, these trees offer beauty, structure, and year-round greenery. Explore our selection of full standard Laurel and transform your outdoor space with their timeless elegance and robust presence.