How to Plant a Bay Tree in the Ground

Bay trees are a popular choice for gardeners who want to add a touch of Mediterranean style to their outdoor space. These slow-growing evergreens are often planted in pots, but they can also be planted in the ground. Here are the steps you need to follow to successfully plant a bay tree in your garden.

Step 1: Choose the Right Spot

Before you start planting, you need to find the right spot for your bay tree. Bay trees thrive in full sun or partial shade, so look for a location that gets plenty of sunlight for most of the day. The soil should also be well-draining and rich in nutrients. If your soil is heavy clay or sandy, you may need to amend it before planting.

Step 2: Prepare the Soil

To prepare the planting site, dig a hole that is twice the diameter of the root ball and about as deep as the root ball. Mix in some compost or well-rotted manure with the soil and backfill the hole so that the top of the root ball is level with the surrounding soil surface. Gently firm the soil around the tree.

Step 3: Plant the Tree

Carefully remove the bay tree from its container and gently loosen any tangled roots. If the roots are circling, use a sharp knife to make four or five vertical cuts in the root ball. This will encourage the roots to grow outwards and establish better in the soil. Place the tree in the prepared hole and backfill with soil, gently tamping down the soil as you go to remove any air pockets.

Step 4: Water and Mulch

Give your newly planted bay tree a thorough watering to help settle the soil around the roots. Continue to water the tree regularly, especially during hot, dry weather. You can also help to conserve soil moisture and improve soil fertility by adding a layer of mulch around the tree. Use an organic mulch such as shredded bark or compost, and spread it around the base of the tree, taking care not to place it against the trunk.

Step 5: Prune and Care for Your Bay Tree

Bay trees are relatively low-maintenance plants, but they benefit from pruning to keep them in shape and encourage bushy growth. Prune your tree in late spring or early summer, removing any dead or diseased branches, as well as any crossing or rubbing branches. You can also prune for size and shape, but avoid over-pruning as this can damage the tree. In winter, you may need to protect your bay tree from frost by covering it with horticultural fleece or a protective cover.

With a little bit of care and attention, your bay tree will thrive in its new home in your garden. Not only will it provide a beautiful focal point, it will also give you a ready supply of fragrant, flavorful bay leaves to add to your cooking.