Laurus nobilis̴Ì?is a species of the Laurel family in which possesses an aromatic scent, with dark-green, glossy leaves- a̴Ì?stunning choice for both hedging̴Ì?and̴Ì?as a specimen plant.
About̴Ì?Pot Grown Bay Laurel
The Laurus nobilis is well-known for its culinary uses, whether that is dried or straight off the bush in the garden. Not only will it fill your garden with a wonderful aromatic fragrance, but it will also bring year-round privacy to your garden. It also provides pale-yellow flowers from March through to May, following with dark berries during Autumn, adding that extra bit of seasonal style and colour.
It is a stunning choice for hedging, as a specimen plant, or even to use as topiary.
The Bay Laurel will grow around 10-20cm per year and will easily be maintained at 1-2m. It is a lovely low maintenance hedging plant with many useful attributes.
Key Features
Your Bay Laurel will thrive best in a sunny position, and in normal soil. It can easily tolerate a coastal site but make sure you shelter it from any strong winds, as well as giving it stem protection during the cold weather. Aside from this, Laurus nobilis is rather drought tolerant and does well in hot weather due to originating from the Mediterranean heritage.
-
Growth height: Slow (10-20cm per year)
-
Ideal height: 2.5m+ Tall
-
Soil Type: Normal
-
Exposure: Inland, Sheltered
-
Aspect: Semi-shade, Sun
-
Evergreen foliage? Yes
Pruning & Care
As it is pot grown, you can easily leave the plant in its pot for a few days/weeks before planting it. Just ensure you keep the plant well-watered, and it gets enough sun. Don't leave it for too long, however, as you don't want the roots becoming root bound.
In terms of pruning your Bay Laurel, it‰ۡó»s rather simple, and all it should need is a light trim during the Summer in order to keep it to shape- if you have a large bush, ensure there are no birds nesting first.
How To Plant Pot Grown Bay Laurel
- Prepare the soil by mixing in some compost. Dig the hole- this will have to be about twice the width of the root system, but the same depth.
- Remove the plant from its pot by placing one hand on the base of the plant, and the other at the bottom of the pot. Wriggle the pot away gently.
- Untangle the roots a little as they may be clumped together.
- Place the plant into the hole, ensuring the base of the stem is level with the surface of the soil. Follow this with backfilling the hole with your soil mix, and patting down lightly to secure.
- When you're done, thoroughly water the plant. Ensure you regularly water throughout its first year, as the plant needs plenty to be able to settle down, recover, and establish.