dying branches on bay laurel bush - Ask Extension
Hello,
This bay laurel bush has branches that die. The bush is planted in a full sun location, with drip irrigation, and in heavy clay soil. Here ar...
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dying branches on bay laurel bush #869072
Asked May 18, 2024, 10:47 PM EDT
Hello,
This bay laurel bush has branches that die. The bush is planted in a full sun location, with drip irrigation, and in heavy clay soil. Here are three pictures of different branches with patchy issues. These branches and othera do have new Spring growth.
Thank you for your help and diagnosis,
Jody
Benton County Oregon
Expert Response
Dear Jody,
Bay Laurels are tricky in this area. With our hot and cold winter and a lot of rain, I think this is an environmental issue. The leaves and the bark show signs of damage most likely due to the cold, windy weather and too much water/rain we have had.
Cracked and peeling bark is usually caused by cold temperatures although other stress factors may be involved. How did it do last year?
Knowing how long the tree has been in the ground, whether it is in a windy location or one that does not have good drainage, e.g. the clay soil you mentioned, all could be factors causing the tree to stress.
You may want to send in a soil sample to a lab to see if there are nutrient deficiencies. However, the tree showing new growth is a good sign. The roots are not dead. Using fish or kelp emulsion right now may help the tree grow. Follow the directions on the label.
They do not need too much fertilizing and using an organic fertilizer, you will not burn the plant. However, they do like well drained soil and to be protected from the wind. Do not over fertilize though. A little more than on the directions is not necessarily a good idea.
You might consider putting the tree in a pot and taking it indoors during the winter. This would depend on what type or variety you purchased, how large it would become and, if you want to do that. Regular potting soil would drain well for potting the tree.
They do best in a south-facing location protected from the wind in well drained soil. I am linking a publication on Bay Laurels for you further research.
https://www.thespruce.com/how-to-grow-your-own-bay-laurel-tree-1402602.
This is a little more information from Oregon State:
https://landscapeplants.oregonstate.edu/plants/laurus-nobilis
Thanks for the question Jody. If you have further questions, please contact us again.
Bay Laurels are tricky in this area. With our hot and cold winter and a lot of rain, I think this is an environmental issue. The leaves and the bark show signs of damage most likely due to the cold, windy weather and too much water/rain we have had.
Cracked and peeling bark is usually caused by cold temperatures although other stress factors may be involved. How did it do last year?
Knowing how long the tree has been in the ground, whether it is in a windy location or one that does not have good drainage, e.g. the clay soil you mentioned, all could be factors causing the tree to stress.
You may want to send in a soil sample to a lab to see if there are nutrient deficiencies. However, the tree showing new growth is a good sign. The roots are not dead. Using fish or kelp emulsion right now may help the tree grow. Follow the directions on the label.
They do not need too much fertilizing and using an organic fertilizer, you will not burn the plant. However, they do like well drained soil and to be protected from the wind. Do not over fertilize though. A little more than on the directions is not necessarily a good idea.
You might consider putting the tree in a pot and taking it indoors during the winter. This would depend on what type or variety you purchased, how large it would become and, if you want to do that. Regular potting soil would drain well for potting the tree.
They do best in a south-facing location protected from the wind in well drained soil. I am linking a publication on Bay Laurels for you further research.
https://www.thespruce.com/how-to-grow-your-own-bay-laurel-tree-1402602.
This is a little more information from Oregon State:
https://landscapeplants.oregonstate.edu/plants/laurus-nobilis
Thanks for the question Jody. If you have further questions, please contact us again.
