Got it! Responded with my advice. :)
Will follow the instructions to the letter. If that bay tree ends up dying, I’m going to feel like I let my sister down.
Assuming tonight’s predicted storms (it’s always Armageddon with these weather fearmongers) don’t do any damage, I’m going to go out tomorrow and invest in some terra cotta. Will update when I know whether the bay is going to be reincarnated or is KIA. :-)