Prunus ‘Schipkaensis’ Schip laurel InstantHedge

The Skip Laurel (Prunus ‘Schipkaensis’ Schip laurel) is a stunning flowering shrub known for its cascading clusters of white blooms in spring. But before you rush out and plant one, a crucial question arises: is Skip Laurel deer resistant? The answer, unfortunately, is a bit complex.

Deer and Skip Laurel: A Fickle Relationship

While some resources claim Skip Laurel is deer resistant, others paint a different picture. The reality is, deer can be quite opportunistic feeders, and their browsing habits depend on several factors:

Hunger Levels: When deer are desperate for food in the winter months, they might nibble on plants they typically avoid.Availability of Other Food Sources: If deer have access to plenty of tastier options in your landscape, they might leave Skip Laurel alone.Individual Deer Preferences: Just like humans, deer have individual tastes. Some may find Skip Laurel unpalatable, while others might give it a try.

Here's the good news: even if deer occasionally munch on Skip Laurel, it's unlikely to cause significant damage. You can get these Skip Laurels on Sale. These shrubs are relatively fast-growing and can usually recover from light browsing.

Planting Your Skip Laurel for Success

Skip Laurel thrives in a variety of conditions, making it a versatile choice for gardeners. Here's how to give your Skip Laurel the best chance of flourishing:

Sunlight: While it tolerates some shade, Skip Laurel prefers full sun for optimal flowering. Aim for at least 6 hours of direct sunlight daily.Soil: Well-drained soil is key. If your soil is heavy clay, amend it with compost or sand to improve drainage.Planting: Choose a location with good air circulation, as this helps prevent fungal diseases. Dig a hole twice the width of the root ball and plant your Skip Laurel at the same depth it was growing in the container. Backfill the hole, water deeply, and apply a layer of mulch around the base (keeping it away from the trunk).

Skip Laurel and Deer Deterrence: A Multi-Layered Approach

While Skip Laurel might not be a guaranteed deer deterrent, its presence can still contribute to a deer-resistant landscape strategy. Here's how:

Companion Planting: Surround Skip Laurel with plants that deer find truly unappealing, such as ferns, holly, lavender, or butterfly bush. This creates a less inviting buffet for deer to choose from.Physical Barriers: Consider erecting fences or deer netting around your most prized plants, especially during the winter months when deer are most likely to browse.Minimize Hiding Spots: Deer feel vulnerable in open spaces. Prune away low-lying branches around your Skip Laurel to remove potential cover for deer.

Pruning for Beauty and Health

Skip Laurel requires minimal pruning to maintain its shape. However, here are some tips:

Prune after flowering: Once the blooms have faded, you can lightly prune to remove any dead, diseased, or overcrowded branches. This promotes healthy growth and encourages more flowers next spring.Shape sparingly: Skip Laurel naturally forms a graceful, arching shape. Avoid heavy pruning that could detract from its natural beauty.

Skip Laurel: More Than Just Deer Resistance

Even if deer occasionally take a nibble, Skip Laurel offers a wealth of benefits to your garden:

Stunning Spring Blooms: The cascading clusters of white flowers create a breathtaking display in April and May.Low-Maintenance: Once established, Skip Laurel requires minimal care, making it a great choice for busy gardeners.Attracts Pollinators: Bees and butterflies are drawn to the fragrant flowers, adding another layer of life to your garden.

The Final Word:

Skip Laurel might not be a guaranteed deer repellent, but its tolerance to browsing, combined with other strategies, can contribute to a deer-resistant landscape. Its beauty, low maintenance needs, and ability to attract pollinators make it a valuable addition to any garden, regardless of deer pressure. So, consider planting this versatile shrub and enjoy its charm for years to come.