Bay Tree - how to revive? (With picture)

[SarahBennettAdvice]

Hi guys,

I have inherited a rather sad looking Bay Tree from my Grandparents. I would love dearly to be able to revive it to its former glory as it’s a fantastic reminder of them every time I lay eyes upon it.

Any advice on what I can do? The leaves are all turning brown and dropping off

Bays need a fertile but well draining soil. A sheltered spot (no winds) preferably in full sun or light shade. Water regularly so long as it doesn't leave the soil soggy - which is shouldn't if you have good drainage.

I'd check the pot has holes in the bottom that are clear for water run off. Check the soil is gritty/sandy enough then give it a good feed now with something liquid (all purpose) for instant food and add something that is slow release (eg a general purpose granule based) and then keep it in the sun.

Keep the soil damp but never soggy. Feed with the granule slow release feed every spring and autumn.

As above, but also give it a light prune to stimulate new growth. I prune mine after flowering and it puts on huge amounts of new growth.

It doesn’t look good, but they have a good capacity to come back from the roots, so keep your fingers crossed.