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Q&A - Why are my Otto Luyken laurels dying?

Question:
Why are my Otto Luyken laurels dying?

Answer:
Jim Crowder from Memphis Botanic Garden says if sections of the Otto Luyken Laurel plant are dying out it is probably Phytophthora root rot. Phytophthora is caused by wet roots. This can be caused by too much mulch and poorly draining soils. Pruning by shearing creates thicker plants but it also is a great condition for shot hole disease. This stresses the plant and opens the door to Phytophthora root rot. Phytophthora is always in the soil and waiting for an opportunity. If you have problems with Phytophthora root rot on Otto Luyken Laurel it may be a good idea to replace the plants with something else.

Related Resources:
Cherrylaurel (Prunus laurocerasus `Otto Luyken')
Laurel
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  • Home
  • Watch
    • TV Schedule
    • Full Episodes Online
    • How-to and Informational
    • Questions and Answers
    • This Week in the Garden
    • Garden Notes
  • Garden Topic Collections
    • Apple Trees: How-to and Information
    • Peach Trees: How-to and Information
    • Tomatoes: How-to and Information
    • Square Foot Garden Blog
  • Resources
    • Soil Testing
    • Extension Publications
    • Gardening Resources
    • Blogs
    • Organic Gardening
    • Articles
    • Privacy
  • Guests
  • Contact Us
    • Ask a Gardening Gardening Question
  • Search