Bay Leaf Plant Care

Some woukd say that the Bay tree is suited to pruning, if kept to any height and width when pruning is carried out. It has been noted to be one of the most versatile herbs because the Bay laurel can be grown as a tall evergreen tree with its glossy foliage.

The container bay laurel is a houseplant in the winter. So Bay laurel makes an ideal trimmed potted plant that can grow up to 10 feet and 5 feet in a container that is located indoors for the winter where it will remain green. How it works is that you will need to choose a container large enough for the size you would like your tree to grow.

For instance a 18 inch wide pot or larger is a container which is durable and will last many years as your Bay Tree can live 10 years or more if properly cared for. You will want to consider the following:

• Caring for your BAY LAUREL
• Harvesting and drying LEAVES
• Planting your TREE

You will need to water the bay leaf deeply then allow the soil to dry out between watering sessions. Be careful not to allow the roots to stay wet for long periods because the root rot may set in. Bay leaves are drought tolerant, but you should avoid allowing the growing medium from drying out altogether in the basic care of pruning a tree or bush yet that was already planted.

The Edible Herb Garden

Other names for this aromatic plant with deep green leaves are Sweet Bay, Grecian Laurel or Roman Laurel. Perfect for low water landscapes, these are compact plants which grow slowly.  Generally, bay doesn’t need pruning thanks to its compact growth habit, but they tolerate being trimmed and shaped into hedges. This could be because as a result of the insecticidal properties, bay trees can handle pests.  

Bay laurels thrive in locations where they are protected from damaging winds, such as cold winter breezes or strong winds. Another good thing is that the trees that prefer soil that is rich in nutrients and are well-draining so that the bay laurel leaf is useful as a flavoring ingredient in foods, or used as an insecticide, in cosmetics,as well as soaps.

Studies show that oil can be extracted from the dried bay leaves to treat sprains, and bruises. Bay leaves are also effective in treating migraine headaches, cold, cough, asthma, gastric ulcers, as well as high blood sugar levels. It will be helpful to use this leaf for treating stomach disorders when beneficial. Lastly dried bay leaves can be crushed and burnt to keep mosquitoes away in the summer months.