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Start by selecting the perfect spot for your bay tree, and let's get planting!
Safety tip: Always wear the appropriate safety equipment (safety glasses, gloves, and a mask, for example) and always follow the instructions for the product or equipment. Always wear gloves and a mask when handling potting mix, mulch and compost, and store products out of the reach of children and pets.
Growing bay trees from seed is not a common method as it can be difficult, but if you're up for the challenge, there are a few things to keep in mind. It's important to note that bay trees are dioecious, which means you need both a male and a female plant for successful fertilisation.
Tip: You can identify the male plant by the sacs on its branches.
Start by looking for small fruits that have ripened to a dark purple or black colour in late summer. Carefully pluck these fruits and remove the dark, matte covering to reveal the seed. Plant the seeds immediately in a seed tray filled with a suitable seed mix. Keep in mind that the germination process for bay tree seeds can vary widely, ranging from 10 days to six months. To maximise your chance of success, it's recommended to overplant, compensating for lower germination rates.
Your patience and dedication will be rewarded once you witness these beautiful trees take root and grow. Remember to provide consistent care as your seeds progress through the germination process, including regular watering and appropriate sunlight. With time and nurturing, you'll soon see your bay tree seeds transform into thriving plants you’ll be able to plant in your garden or an indoor pot.
The ideal time to propagate bay trees is during the end of summer, using semi-hardwood cuttings. Look for long, leafy cuttings with a heel of older bark at the base, as these tend to have the best success rate.
To propagate the cuttings, start by removing the lower leaves to expose a clean stem. Dip the cut end into a striking gel or hormone powder to encourage root growth. Carefully place the cutting into a pot filled with propagating mix, ensuring that the stem is securely planted.
Maintain a moist and warm environment for the cuttings, placing them in a sunny location. It's crucial to keep the soil consistently moist to promote healthy root development. Over time, as the cuttings establish themselves, you can transplant them directly into well-drained soil or individual pots.
You can plant an established bay tree year-round; however, autumn is the ideal season for optimal results. Choose a location that receives ample sunlight, has good soil drainage, and is easily accessible for watering.
Before planting, it's recommended to prepare the soil by applying a balanced fertiliser and watering it well. This will help provide essential nutrients and promote healthy growth for your bay tree.
If you're planning to plant your bay tree in a pot, select a container that is at least 300mm wide and deep. This size will provide sufficient space for the roots to grow and thrive. The pot should be placed in an area that receives full sun or light shade throughout the day.
Add a layer of potting mix to the bottom of the container. Gently tease the roots of the bay tree to encourage their spread, then carefully position the tree in the pot. Firmly press down the soil around the base of the tree to ensure stability and proper root contact.
Asbestos, lead-based paints and copper chromium arsenic (CCA) treated timber are health hazards you need to look out for when renovating older homes. These substances can easily be disturbed when renovating and exposure to them can cause a range of life-threatening diseases and conditions including cancer. For information on the dangers of asbestos, lead-based paint and CCA treated timber and tips for dealing with these materials contact your local council's Environmental Health Officer or visit our Health & Safety page.
When following our advice in our D.I.Y. videos, make sure you use all equipment, including PPE, safely by following the manufacturer’s instructions. Check that the equipment is suitable for the task and that PPE fits properly. If you are unsure, hire an expert to do the job or talk to a Bunnings Team Member.
