Frost of a Bay Leaf

Question

I live in France. We had a severe winter this year up to -20. I have numerous bay leaves planted in the ground which have been there for over 30 years. They have all caught the winter frost and the leaves have turned brown and are falling off. What should I do – hard prune or just leave to its own device?

Answer 1

They can recover, if the stems are alive. This article will help you determine if the stems are still alive: https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/plant-problems/environmental/how-to-tell-if-a-plant-is-dead-and-how-to-recover-an-almost-dead-plant.htm The brown leaves will fall off. Then new leaves will grow back. Because bay trees grow slowly, this may take some time. Here is an article that you may find helpful: https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/plant-problems/environmental/tips-for-saving-cold-damaged-plants.htm