Take a heel cutting, a fresh shoot or tip in early summer or in autumn/fall. Cut from a mature bay tree. The cutting should be about 8cm (3") in length. [1] X Research source Remove the upper and lower leaves from the cutting. Dip the intended root end into hormonal cutting mix. This will stimulate vigorous root growth. Put the cutting into a container filled with two-thirds coarse sand and one-third peat moss. Put the container under a plastic bag hanging over wire or similar to keep it from touching or landing on the cutting. This creates a mini-greenhouse for the cutting. [2] X Research source Be patient. It will take around 9 months for the cutting to root.
Bay trees prefer full sun aspects in cool to warm zones. For a hot zone, provide partial shade for very hot or tropical climates. They should also be sheltered from wind. Select soil that drains well, of a medium richness. If you are placing the bay tree into a container, add a little lime to balance out acidic soil.
Bay trees in a container need more regular watering.
The bay tree responds well to being turned into a topiary; this is more commonly done for bay trees grown in containers.
