Growing Redbay: A Step-By-Step Guide

Growing Redbay: A Step-By-Step Guide

The redbay tree (Persea borbonia) has a quiet charm that captures you. Its glossy, deep green leaves and subtle fragrance make it a standout in any garden. But growing redbay is both an art and a relationship—you have to know what it needs and what it hates.

Step 1: Choose the Right Location

Here’s the deal: redbay loves the sun, but too much blazing heat can stress it out. Partial shade works beautifully, especially in hotter climates. Think dappled light under taller trees.

The soil? It’s got to drain well, period. Redbay can’t stand wet feet. Sandy loam is my go-to for this tree, but if your soil leans too clay-heavy, mix in compost or sand to keep water moving.

Step 2: Planting the Redbay

Start with a healthy sapling. Pull it from a reputable source—no bad roots or signs of disease. Trust me, this step makes all the difference down the road.

1. Dig a hole twice as wide as the root ball and just as deep.
2. Loosen the roots gently, but don’t manhandle them. Just tease them open so they’ll spread out.
3. Set the tree in the hole, making sure the top of the root ball is level with the ground.
4. Backfill with soil, tamping it down lightly as you go. Air pockets are your enemy here.
5. Water deeply to settle the soil.

Here’s where most people mess up: don’t pile mulch up against the trunk. Leave a gap, or you’ll invite rot and pests.

Step 3: Watering and Feeding

Redbay is not a thirsty tree, but consistency is key. Water it deeply once or twice a week during the first year. After that, only water during dry spells. Let’s just say this tree appreciates a minimalist approach.

Fertilizer-wise, less is more. A balanced, slow-release fertilizer in spring is enough to keep it happy. Overfeeding leads to weak growth—and who wants a flimsy tree?

Step 4: Pruning and Maintenance

If you’re the type who likes to pull out pruning shears for every leaf, stop right there. Redbay doesn’t need much pruning beyond removing dead or diseased branches. Let it do its thing.

That said, keep an eye out for suckers at the base. Cut those off immediately. They steal energy from the main tree and create a weedy mess.

“Healthy pruning is about restraint, not redesigning the tree. Step back, observe, and cut sparingly.”

Step 5: The Laurel Wilt Threat

Here’s the elephant in the room: laurel wilt disease. It’s spread by an invasive beetle, and it’s wiped out countless redbays across the southeastern U.S. Prevention is your only weapon.

Inspect your tree regularly. Look for wilting leaves, dark streaks under the bark, or sudden dieback. If you spot trouble, remove and burn the affected tree immediately—don’t hesitate.

To reduce risk, avoid moving firewood or fresh-cut wood from infected areas. Spread of the beetle can be slowed with smart gardening practices.

Step 6: Redbay in the Landscape

Redbay isn’t just functional; it’s a beauty. Its evergreen leaves catch the light in winter, and its small blue fruits attract birds like a magnet. I’ve watched cardinals flock to mine after the first frost—it’s a sight worth the effort.

If you’re feeling ambitious, plant a few redbays together to create a natural screen. They grow up to 60 feet tall in the right conditions but stay manageable with occasional pruning.

Love the tree, but not its size? Look for its cousin, the swamp bay (Persea palustris). It’s more compact but shares much of the same elegance.

Final Thoughts on Growing Redbay

Growing redbay is a commitment, but it’s rewarding. It’s about fostering something that thrives against the odds. With a little care and attention, you’ll have a tree that stands as a quiet witness to time, weather, and change.

Growing the Redbay tree is a great way to contribute to your environment and community. This tree is a vital part of the local ecosystem, providing essential habitat for many species of animals and birds. Plus, it produces an aromatic flowering every year, creating a beautiful landscape. Since it's resistant to most pests and diseases, Redbay is an easy-to-grow plant - perfect for any outdoor setting. Growing a Redbay will enrich your outdoor area, providing a habitat for many species and creating a beautiful, aromatic landscape. Bring nature to your back door and reap the rewards of growing a Redbay!