Information About Bay Trees

Bay tree can grow as a tree with a single trunk or as bush composed of multiple trunks. It can reach from 33 to 59 feet in height. Bay tree has smooth bark that is usually greenish grey or grey in color. Bay tree produces evergreen, leathery leaves that are lanceolate in shape.

Where do bay trees grow?
Do bay trees flower?
Do bay trees drop their leaves?
How tall do bay trees grow?
Can I use bay leaves straight from the tree?
Where is the best place to plant a bay tree?
Do bay trees like sun or shade?
Is bay leaf poisonous to dogs?
Do bay trees have deep roots?
How do you take care of a bay leaf tree?
What is the best fertilizer for bay trees?
Are bay leaves poisonous?

Where do bay trees grow?

Native to the Mediterranean region, the bay tree is widely cultivated as an ornamental there and as a houseplant in colder climates – mainly because it's an excellent candidate for growing as a topiary. Hardy only to zone 7, it's ideal for forming low hedges.

Do bay trees flower?

DO BAY TREES HAVE FLOWERS? ... In our experience flowers are produced in April / May time but only on mature specimens. Younger bay trees do not produce flowers. The flowers are very small, about the size of a five pence piece.

Do bay trees drop their leaves?

It is natural for evergreens to shed a few leaves in the autumn, however my immediate thought is that it may have outgrown its container as Bay trees have quite extensive root systems. Try re-potting it into a larger container in the spring, using a soil-based compost such as John Innes number 3.

How tall do bay trees grow?

In the garden, bay trees grow as a large bushy shrub or small tree, reaching a height of 7.5m (23ft) or more.

Can I use bay leaves straight from the tree?

Actual bay leaves (Laurus nobilis) are safe, but the leathery leaves, which can be sharp on the edges, should always be removed from the dish before serving. ... The leaves are often used as a garnish. Mexican bay leaf (Litsea glaucescens) is often used in place of Laurus nobilis.

Where is the best place to plant a bay tree?

Choose a sheltered spot protected from strong winds in full sun. If your soil isn't well drained, consider growing plants in 30cm (12in) pots filled with soil-based or multipurpose, (including peat free) compost.

Do bay trees like sun or shade?

Latin name: Laurus nobilis. Position: Bay trees love a sunny or partially shaded area of the garden. Watering: Water regularly with well-drained soil during the growing season.

Is bay leaf poisonous to dogs?

In dogs, a bay leaf will not kill them or cause any serious damages, but it may very well upset their stomachs and cause digestive problems that include vomiting. If your dog accidentally eats a bay leaf, you can expect it to feel much better in a day or two, but it can be painful for you to watch in the meantime.

Do bay trees have deep roots?

Bay trees can grow up to 12m (40ft) if left to grow unchecked, so you'll need to prune your tree each year if you grow it outside. ... Bay trees have very shallow root systems. This means in very dry conditions you may need to water your tree but otherwise the bay requires little attention.

How do you take care of a bay leaf tree?

Bay laurels like to be kept in moist soil, but be careful not to overwater your plant. Overwatering can cause root rot and irreversible damage to bay laurels. Keep your bay laurel in well-draining soil, and only water the plant when the top one to two inches of soil are dry.

What is the best fertilizer for bay trees?

A bag of John Innes No 2 would be ideal. From late spring to the end of summer, when the bays are in growth, additional feed will keep leaves green and plants healthy. Push a pellet of slow-release fertiliser into the surface of the compost every couple of weeks.

Are bay leaves poisonous?

This is not true; bay leaves may be eaten without toxic effect. However, they remain unpleasantly stiff even after thorough cooking, and if swallowed whole or in large pieces they may pose a risk of harming the digestive tract or causing choking.