Removing Laurel tree

Sylvia Smith · 18 January

I have a Portuguese Laurel tree about 7 metres tall which has to be removed because the roots are affecting a brick wall. Given the poisonous nature of the leaves berries etc. are any precautions required for cutting off the foliage and cutting down the trunk and removing the root. Also chipping the waste.

GardenerSuze · 18 January

@SylviaSmith I had the same situation, wall, too big etc. I had it removed by a 'tree surgeon' he was recommended but dangerous in what he did. No hat gloves or safety equipment. I have pruned it but always wear gloves. There is always a possibility of an adverse reaction to any plant. The sap is often the main problem or pollen on the air .
I would think cyanide is only a problem if ingested? I don't know the answer. Welcome.

Just one thing you could consider is crown lifting so that you can plant underneath this will inhibit the growth if done annually.However it it is the cause of the damage this won't be helpful.

Silver surfer · 18 January

I believe it is poisonous/toxic if eaten.
You should be fine removing it, chipping it...I would recommend gloves.
A mask and goggles to protect you from dust might be a sensible idea

Allotment Boy · 20 January

I think I heard that you shouldn't shred the fresh leaves, or certainly do it in the open air if you have to.

Silver surfer · 20 January

Correction....Had another look on www found this.

https://www.hopesgrovenurseries.co.uk/knowledge-base/are-laurel-hedges-poisonous/

"Care should be taken whilst planting your hedge and avoid chipping the wood, as this can release hydrocyanic fumes into the air."

Palustris · 20 January

The wood and roots are very strong and take some cutting. I have had to remove a fair number from this garden. Never had any bother from the sap or the leaves. I usually let the branches dry out before shredding, but that is only because my shredder does not like fresh green leaves. Any roots left can regrow by the way.

thevictorian · 21 January

Have a look at frequently asked questions on this rhs info page

https://www.rhs.org.uk/soil-composts-mulches/woody-waste-using-as-mulch

Basically unless you are in a confined space and chopping up a lot of laurel the risk is negligible because the concentration of hydrogen cyanide is low. A bit like why no one dies from eating apple cores or seeds.

Dovefromabove · 21 January

I’ve heard scary tales of folk taking shredded laurel leaves to the tip in the car … but otherwise, if work is carried out in the fresh air my personal view (as an experienced but amateur gardener) is that the risk is low.

Sylvia Smith · 24 January

Thanks everyone

Ergates · 24 January

Didn’t realise this was a problem! We have loads of cherry Laurel, and Portuguese laurel, which generate a lot of pruning and shredding. The shredding is always done in the open air, and usually goes straight into the green bins. Never aware of any adverse effects, but had noted the distinct smells of almonds, which I quite enjoyed!

Removing Laurel tree

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