How to Cut and Prune a Laurel

Create a tree form by cutting the lower branches. Remove branches from the lower quarter of the plant using pruning shears. Trim branches that stick out beyond the main shape of the bush. Remove branch tips to shape the tree form along the natural lines of the laurel, which is a tear-drop shape. Make all branch cuts tight against the trunk or branch crotch, and do not leave stubs. Make shaping cuts as shallow as possible from the branch tips.

Create a shrub form by shearing branch tips using hedge trimmers. Cut the bush into the general form you desire, making sure that the bottom is slightly wider than the top to keep ample amounts of light available to the bottom branches. Shear the bush a second time to smooth out any clumps. Make your cuts as shallow as possible; the inner portion of the bush will have no leaves due to lack of sunlight.

Cut several laurels into a hedge by extending the shape of a bush into a row. Carve hedges into shapes that are rounded on the top and smooth on the sides so that snow or ice cannot accumulate in the winter. Cut from the bottom of the hedge to the top, stepping back frequently to ensure an even trim.