How to Grow Bay Leaves

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By Gardengates
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Bay branches

The bay leaf we use for cooking comes from the bay tree, Laurus nobilis. It is a tree that grows naturally in the Mediterranean and can be grown in many of the warmer zones of the United States. Although most of the laurel family are not edible and many are downright poisonous, the California Bay also produces a leaf that can be used for cooking.

Difficulty: Easy

Instructions

Step 1

The bay tree is indeed a tree and will soar some 30' to 60' tall. You can keep it pruned to make a large shrub or dwarf it by growing it in a large pot.
Step 2

The sweet bay laurel leaf is considered to be helpful for a number of health issues including being an antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and an anti-convulsant. Using it as a pharmaceutical is best left to health experts, however. Cooking, on the other hand, is accessible to all of us. And bay leaves can add a special tang to soups, meats and other dishes. Like any spice, you will need more if you use it fresh than if you use it dried.
Step 3

The California bay, Umbellularia californica (also part of the laurel family), can be used the same as the Sweet Bay. In fact, it is frequently sold as the bay leaves we purchase at the store.
Step 4

The Sweet Bay grows in a pyramid-like shape and takes pruning well. Both varieties can be grown in pots or even indoors with very good light. This way you can keep them conveniently small. If your temperatures stay above 20'F you can grow either bay tree into a big specimen tree outdoors where it will be both decorative and useful for shade. Both varieties can take some shade or full sun and prefer moderate water. The California bay tends to be more accepting of poor soil and less water than the sweet bay.
Step 5

You can grow your bay from a seed if you are very determined. They can take a long time to germinate. Or you can grow them from hardwood cuttings a bit easier. Easiest is to purchase yours in a pot! Although some folks have found bays to be fussy about being transplanted, I've never had any problem. It seems when in doubt, prune them back and they are more likely to come back. They really do take pruning well.
Step 6

Whether you grow a bay laurel in a pot indoors or out, or you plant one in your landscape these are attractive plants that will offer evergreen decoration and wonderfully scented leaves for cooking or sachets.

Comments

Gardengates said

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on 2/21/2009 Since I don't know where either dladams70 or amerbanjo live, I can only suggest you search on the internet. There are many herb, tree and general growers/nursery sites that offer young plants (started cuttings) and some potted bays (more expensive on the shipping). Try TyTy or Bay Laurel nurseries for starters.

dladams70 said

on 2/20/2009 I have been looking for the Bay plant and have not been able to find one in my area. Could you let me know any sources where it can be purchased.. Thanks so much. Loved your article.