PLANTING SUGGESTIONS: This shrub should be fed in spring with an acid fertilizer, such as one formulated for azaleas and rhododendrons. Feeding will encourage more vigorous blooming.
WATER: A newly planted mountain laurel needs watering every three to four days for the first few weeks. Give it enough water to thoroughly moisten the soil without making it soggy.
SUN: Mountain laurel is highly prized because it performs well in part shade. It can tolerate full sun but the deep-green leaves may turn yellowish.
WHEN TO PLANT: Plant mountain laurel shrubs in the spring, after any danger of frost has passed, to early summer in cool, moist soil that is well-drained and acidic.
SOIL: These shrubs are like cool, moist but well-drained, acidic soil (pH 5.0 to 5.5), planters filled with a well-draining soil mix.