Bay Leaf Tips Browning

Question

We dug up a small offshoot (might have been two now that I think about it) of bay tree at my dad’s house in NorCal. It’s been potted in San Diego and seems to be fine and then this issue occurs. -it’s outdoor in a pot in a walled in patio -during HOT summer we had an umbrella over it and other plants. I think temps here range 55-75 avg with some colder and hotter days depending on season -I think it’s protected enough from wind? The first time around I think it got under watered and all the leaves turned brown and crispy. I started caring for it more regularly and a new shoot came up with green leaves. It looked healthy and thriving and now the tips of the leaves are starting to brown again. I can’t figure out if it’s being under watered or overwatered. When I stick a finger down the soils still seems pretty damp but I still water it when top inch is dry. From what I’ve read it doesn’t need fertilizer too often but maybe this one needs since it’s still establishing? I so want it to be well and thrive. If you have ideas on this I’d very much appreciate!!

Answer 1

I owuld likely say that it is overwatering. The soil needs to dry down to several inches. They grow in my area, where temperatures are into the 100's so your temperatures are perfect compared to what I receive, here.

You will need to let the top few inches dry, thoroughly, and make sure that your container has plenty of drainage holes to allow all extra water out. Along with correcting watering practices, you will need a fungicide, as well.

Here are some articles that will help:

https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/edible/herbs/bay/sweet-bay-leaf-tree.htm

https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/garden-how-to/info/using-fungicides-in-garden.htm