Trimming a bay tree

[LeatherSoledShoes]

I haven’t trimmed my bay ball since I bought it five years ago 😬 so it’s looking a bit like it needs one.

I’ve read loads but haven’t dared to trim it as I’m sure I’ll mess it up.

Has anyone got any fool proof methods for not ruining this sort of tree? I’ve seen mesh balls but only for box type leaves.

It is a really healthy tree, I’m good at remembering to feed my potted trees, just clueless about trimming.

Also, do I really need special shears or are topiary shears just for box. I feel like they are.

Secateurs would be fine.

Could you make a circle of the diameter you want, and use that to guide your trimming?

Bay trees go well from cuttings, I’ve discovered. To give away or to use in cooking instead of your main tree.

Thank you. I might try to make a circle out of a coat hanger, that’s a great idea, maybe I could ask around to see if anyone has got an empty metal hanging basket.

I’ll give some cuttings to my dad to bring on too, didn’t think of that.

I already use the leaves in cooking, as do my neighbours. I’m not sure there’s another use for them without making work but I might google that too.