- 1). Plant mountain laurel in a well-drained bed in an area that receives dappled sunlight or morning sun and afternoon shade. Mountain laurel tolerates slightly sandy or rocky soils, but too much sun can inhibit blooming.
- 2). Water mountain laurels every seven days when there is less than 1 inch of weekly rainfall during the first year after planting. Give it just enough water to moisten the top 6 to 8 inches of soil. Water established laurels during prolonged dry periods so the soil doesn't dry out completely.
- 3). Spread a 2-inch layer of shredded pine bark mulch around the base of the laurel to help retain soil moisture. Pine barks provides acidity to the soil as it breaks down, which benefits the mountain laurel. Replenish the mulch layer each spring to maintain the 2-inch depth.
- 4). Fertilize mountain laurels once in the spring just before the flower buds open. Sprinkle ½ cup of azalea fertilizer on top the soil around each bush.
- 5). Prune the flowers as soon as they begin to wilt to prevent the plant from setting seeds, which drains energy from the laurel and can inhibit the bloom in following years. Cut out any dead or damaged branches.
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