Are my Laurels dead or dying?

I planted these laurels about 2 months ago. They weren’t looking great before I planted them as they had been kicking about for 2 months as there was a delay in the landscaping work. They were in the hessian bags and I made sure they didn’t get dry, being careful not to overwater them. I added some bonemeal to each when I planted them, but they have just gone downhill since. I’ve not watered them as we have had so much rain here in Essex since planting. Are they finished or can I save them somehow . Thanks

 

Look to me like they still might recover. I'd give them more time before doing anything else with them. I have planted a good few laurels and they seem to thrive on neglect. If the soil is wet then you could add some mulch to help keep the soil damp.

Happy gardening!

 

Thanks - that gives me hope! I’ve since read that I should get all the dead looking leaves off and cut about 6 inches off the top as well as any wispy bits. Will this encourage growth do you think?

 

Personally I would just let them do their own thing and drop the leaves they want to get rid of themselves. I've read the advice to cut down hedge plants just after planting but don't do this myself and I'd be worried any cutting into them would allow access points for disease particularly when they are already looking like they are in poor health.
All the best!

 

I would ensure that they are tightly planted. Without crushing the stems, walk around and really heel them in. Give them a full soak, and mulch with well rotted manure. Water at least monthly. I agree with not cutting them, time enough for that in the future . Two months after planting, the bone meal will not have broken down to be assimilated yet, give them time to recover and grow some fine roots.