Hardy Bay Tree Laurus Nobilis Standard Evergreen 2 x 3 Litre Pot

Add a touch of class to your garden with this beautiful Thompson & Morgan Bay Tree standard. A neat ball of glossy, evergreen foliage sits atop a tall slender stem, making an elegant addition to patio containers, sheltered garden borders or either side of an entranceway. In spring, Laurus nobilis is smothered with clusters of pale yellow flowers which are highly attractive to bees. The aromatic leaves can also be harvested for use in cooking.

Thompson & Morgan Bay trees are best grown in large containers of soil based compost that can be moved to a cold greenhouse or sheltered position during winter. In mild areas, plant Bay laurel trees in the ground in any fertile, well-drained soil in a sheltered position in sun or semi-shade. Prior to planting drive a stake into the planting hole to support the tree once it is planted. Plant bay trees at the same soil level as the pot, and use a tree tie to fasten the tree to the stake.

Bay trees do not suffer weed competition well, so keep weeds and grass clear from within a 30cm radius of the base of the tree. In spring, apply a mulch of well-rotted manure or garden compost to the base of the tree. This will help to retain moisture throughout the summer. Water sweet bay trees well during dry periods, particularly during the first 2 or 3 years whilst they are establishing.

Prune bay tree standards during summer, to encourage a dense habit and maintain a balanced shape. Lightly prune new shoots to just above a bud to create the desired shape. Any leaves which have been damaged by winter frosts should be trimmed in late spring.

Young bay trees will appreciate some winter protection from hard frosts. Container grown plants should be moved to a sheltered position or cold greenhouse. Caution: irritant to skin and eyes.

Ideal For: Patio, Kitchen Garden, Wildlife Gardens, Specimen Plant
Hardiness: Hardy
Position In: Full Sun, Sun or Semi-Shade
Height: Up to 150cm (59.1in)
Spread: Up to 50cm (19.7in)