How to Plant a Bay Tree
- 1). Break up the soil to an 18-inch depth in your desired planting location, using a pitchfork or garden spade. Test the pH of the soil with a soil testing kit; bay trees thrive in soil with a pH between 6.6 and 7.5.
- 2). Mix lime in with the soil if your test reveals that the pH is below 6.6. Blend peat moss into the soil if its pH is above 7.5. Add the appropriate amendment according to the instructions on the product label.
- 3). Dig a hole for the bay tree with a depth that matches the height of the tree's nursery container. Dig the hole twice the width of the container to give the tree plenty of room for root expansion.
- 4). Lay the bay tree on its side. Slide the root ball out of the container. Leave the roots and dirt intact during removal. Turn the bay tree upright and set it in the center of the planting hole. Adjust the tree as necessary to make sure it is standing straight.
- 5). Backfill the hole halfway. Fill the hole with water to secure the roots of the tree. Continue backfilling the hole. Tamp the soil down with your hands to remove trapped air, which can rob the roots of moisture.
- 6). Water the bay tree regularly with a soaker hose. Supply the tree with at least 1 inch of water per week during the first two growing seasons.
