Hanging Bay Laurel Plant: A Creative Way to Add Greenery to Your Space

A hanging bay laurel plant is an innovative and aesthetic way to incorporate greenery into any indoor or outdoor space This attractive evergreen can be used in a variety of creative ways to add a touch of nature and vibrancy In this comprehensive guide, we will explore everything you need to know about using a hanging bay laurel plant to elevate your living space.

Bay laurel, also known scientifically as Laurus nobilis, is an aromatic evergreen tree or shrub native to the Mediterranean region. It has been cherished since ancient times for its glossy green leaves and distinct, sweet fragrance. In fact, bay laurel leaves are a popular culinary herb featured in many savory dishes

Beyond its rich history and usage in cooking, the bay laurel plant offers ornamental value with its lush foliage and ability to be shaped or pruned as topiaries. It can survive both indoor and outdoor environments, making it a versatile choice for gardens and decor.

Benefits of a Hanging Bay Laurel

Choosing to display a bay laurel in a hanging planter offers numerous advantages

• Creative presentation: Hanging baskets allow you to showcase plants in an innovative way and are perfect for smaller spaces with limited floor area. The cascading greenery makes a statement.

• Height and dimension: Suspending the bay laurel adds height and depth to the look, breaking up vertical space. This is especially helpful for brightening up corners or drawing the eye upwards.

• Mobility: Since it is not fixed to the ground, a hanging planter can be moved around easily to transform different spots as needed.

• Healthy growth: A hanging basket allows for adequate airflow and drainage which is vital for the laurel’s vigor. Proper drainage prevents root rot.

• Practicality: Hanging plants utilize air space and keep floor space open and uncluttered. No need for permanent garden beds or borders.

• Aesthetic versatility: A hanging bay laurel appears charming in any style from modern lofts to cozy cottage rooms. Its vibrance enlivens interior and exterior settings alike.

Choosing the Right Planter

To ensure your hanging bay laurel thrives, choose an appropriate planter or hanging basket. Consider the following:

• Select a basket or pot at least 12 inches wide and 10 inches deep to accommodate the laurel’s root system. Proper space promotes growth.

• Make sure the container has adequate drainage holes to prevent water-logging. Elevated planters drain better than ground-level pots.

• Opt for a sturdy basket or pot that can support the spread of the plant as well as withstand outdoor elements if hung outside.

• For indoor use, pick a planter that matches your decor style – from modern wire frames to classic terra cotta.

• Outdoor planters should be weather-resistant and able to endure rain, wind, and temperature fluctuations.

Caring for a Hanging Bay Laurel

Though relatively low-maintenance, bay laurels do require some care to flourish in a hanging basket. Here are some tips:

• Site the plant in a spot with 6+ hours of bright, indirect sunlight daily. Avoid intense midday sun which can scorch leaves.

• Water thoroughly 1-2 times per week, allowing the soil to dry out slightly between waterings. Adjust frequency based on climate.

• Fertilize every 6-8 weeks during the growing season with a balanced liquid fertilizer to nourish the plant.

• Mist the laurel’s leaves occasionally to boost humidity which it favors. Low humidity can cause leaf browning.

• Prune and shape the plant as desired to contain its size and direct its growth. Frequent trimming thickens growth.

• Monitor for pests like scale insects or diseases and treat any issues promptly. Proper air flow discourages pests.

• Transition the planter indoors before frost if hanging outside. Bay laurels prefer temperatures above 30°F.

Where to Hang a Bay Laurel Plant

One of the appeals of a hanging bay laurel is that it can be incorporated in so many locations:

Inside your home:

• Entryway – Greet guests with this fresh focal point

• Kitchen – Allow the aromas to enhance your cooking space

• Living room – Accent a seating area or corner

• Sunroom -Complement the light and greenery

• Bathroom – Enjoy the scents and vibrancy

• Bedroom – Add calming nature to your personal retreat

Outside your home:

• Front porch – Welcome visitors with curb appeal

• Back patio – Embellish an outdoor living space

• Balcony – Bring life to a small external area

• Garden – Integrate visual interest throughout beds and borders

• Courtyard – Use as a decorative element in the landscape

• Poolside – Contribute lushness in an aquatic environment

Design Inspiration for Hanging Bay Laurels

Once you understand the basics of caring for and positioning a hanging bay laurel, let your creativity direct you in designing an inspiring display. Some options include:

• Group multiple planters together at varying heights for a cascade effect. Mix with other plants for multi-textured appeal.

• Combine a laurel basket with decorative hanging bulbs or lights for a glittering statement.

• Let the bay laurel be the standout by suspending it alone in a visible spot against a plain backdrop.

• Weave hanging laurels throughout an outdoor space to connect different zones with organic touches.

• Frame an entryway with matching baskets on either side of the door for a cohesive aesthetic.

• Nestle a planter amidst shelves or cabinets so the errant greenery seems to sprout from within.

Ultimately, the possibilities are endless when pairing a lush bay laurel with a creative hanging planter display. This unique way to add greenery will enliven any space, indoors or out. With proper care and imaginative placement, the handsome vibrance of a suspended bay laurel plant will be an asset to your décor.