Question
I had 5 of these laurels, planted in Fall 08. Zone 6, clay, alkaline soil in my area. This Spring, they have a lot of yellow leaves, which turn brown and drop off.  Soil was amended by landscaper, probably not with anything particularly acidic, at planting.  Are they water-logged, or do they just need some Holly-Tone? (That's all I ever use for plants that love acidic soil.) How can I get the Holly Tone past the surface roots where it is really needed? Is there a special technique?

Answer
Hi Katrina, I would expect some leaf drop of the oldest, internal leaves as the new growth emerges.  If the new growth looks good, I wouldn't be too concerned.  If the new growth is yellow, then the first thing I would look for is improper drainage and then improper pH. Laurels should be planted high to prevent you, or Mother Nature, from over-watering. Don't over mulch. They need good air movement in the soil.  I'd like the pH to be below 6, so check it and adjust it if necessary.
Almost all of the plants nutrients are absorbed by the surface roots in the top couple of inches.  No need to get below them.  That's where the fertilizer should be.  Jim