Bay laurel is an evergreen shrub or tree native to the Mediterranean area, best known for its leaves which are widely used as a kitchen seasoning. Pointed oval leaves are deep, glossy green with a leathery texture and have little aroma either fresh or dried. But when added to cooking liquids bay leaf releases essential oils that add a peppery, minty and slightly bitter flavor to soups, stews and sauces.
Bay laurel (Laurel nobilis) is also rich in symbolism dating to early Greek civilization with dozens of examples found throughout history. It represents a number of virtues including achievement, wisdom, victory, and everlasting love. Romans adopted the symbolism crowning their emperors with laurel wreaths. The word baccalaureate stems from the Greek “laureate” for laurel tree and Latin “bacca” for berry.
Bay Laurel is a slow-growing tree best planted in spring. Its dioecious which means both male and female plants are needed to produce flowers and berries. When pollinated, small yellow flowers develop into dark purple berries in the fall. Natural growth habit produces a medium- to large-sized tree with multiple stems that form a dense green pyramidal canopy. Bay laurel accepts heavy pruning, so you just as often see it as a shrub or container plant.
Bay laurel is somewhat easy to care for indoors or outdoors with potted plants generally kept to 4 to 8 feet tall, while unpruned landscape plants can grow from 30 to 60 feet tall. Though the leaves are often used in cooking, they are toxic to cats, dogs, and horses.
Bay laurel and bay leaf are the same. However, aromatic plants such as California bay (Umbellularia californica), and others, may be mislabeled in the store as bay leaf because of the similarities in fragrance and taste.
The aromatic bay laurel plant, also known as sweet bay or Laurus nobilis, is a popular herb prized for its culinary and ornamental value. With its glossy green leaves and pleasing shape, bay laurel makes an attractive addition to any indoor garden. Follow these tips to grow a thriving bay laurel plant indoors and enjoy fresh bay leaves for cooking.
Choosing the Right Container
Select a pot that is wider than the root ball with drainage holes A 12-16 inch plastic or ceramic container allows room for growth Make sure it is heavy enough to support the mature plant weight, Shallow boxes or window boxes also work well for restricted spaces,
The Best Potting Mix
Bay laurel thrives in a fertile, well-draining potting mix Create a custom blend by combining
- 2 parts potting soil
- 1 part peat moss
- 1 part perlite
The peat retains moisture while the perlite provides aeration and drainage You can also purchase premixed indoor potting mixes
Watering Needs
Bay laurel prefers consistent moisture but dislikes soggy roots. Water thoroughly whenever the top 1-2 inches of soil become dry. Add water until it drains freely from the bottom drainage holes. Allow excess water to drain fully to avoid root rot.
Ideal Light Conditions
Place bay laurel near a bright, south-facing window receiving 4-6 hours of direct sun daily. Rotate the plant occasionally for even light exposure. Providing ample light prevents leggy, weak growth. Supplement with a grow light if needed.
Temperature and Humidity
Maintain indoor temperatures between 60-80°F. Bay laurel tolerates short drops to 50°F. High humidity levels around 50-70% prevent leaf scorching and promote lush growth. Group plants together or use a humidifier.
Fertilizer Application
Apply a balanced liquid fertilizer diluted to half strength every 2-3 weeks during spring and summer. Suspend fertilizing in fall and winter when growth slows.
Pruning for Shape
Prune back leggy stems and dense interior branches in early spring. This encourages bushier new growth. Maintain a shapely form through regular tip pruning.
Controlling Pests
Inspect regularly for infestations of aphids, mealybugs, scale and mites. Remove by hand or use insecticidal soap sprays. Ensure the potting mix drains well and do not overwater to prevent fungal diseases.
Harvesting Bay Leaves
Harvest leaves once the plant reaches 18-24 inches tall. Pick individual mature leaves as needed for cooking. Cut leaves with a sterilized pruner to prevent disease transmission.
Getting Started With a Nursery Plant
Purchase a young bay laurel plant from a nursery. Select a 12 inch pot size with healthy foliage and no insect damage. Transplant into a clean container using fresh potting mix.
Propagating From Cuttings
Take 4-6 inch stem tip cuttings in spring or summer. Remove lower leaves and place in water or moist potting mix until roots form. Transplant into pots once rooted.
Transitioning Outdoor Plants Indoors
Move outdoor plants inside before first frost. Cut back branches to reduce transpiration. Gradually introduce to indoor conditions over 2-3 weeks. Continue watering and fertilizing normally.
Troubleshooting Common Issues
Leaves turning brown: Increase watering frequency, move to a brighter location.
Leaf drop: Increase humidity, avoid temperature fluctuations.
Leggy growth: Provide more light, prune back stems.
White crusty deposits: Treat mealybug infestations promptly.
Root rot: Allow soil to dry out between waterings, ensure drainage holes are unclogged.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long do indoor bay laurel plants live? Typically 8-10 years with proper care.
Should I mist my bay laurel plant? Yes, misting provides extra humidity and helps prevent leaf browning.
Can I grow bay laurel in water? Rooted cuttings can be grown temporarily in water but transplant to potting mix for long term growth.
When should I repot my bay laurel? Repot every 2-3 years in spring when roots fill the container. Move to a slightly larger pot.
Can I grow bay laurel outside? Bay laurel grows best outdoors in USDA zones 8-10. Provide winter protection in cooler climates.
With its handsome form and aromatic leaves, the bay laurel plant satisfies visually and culinarily. Follow these indoor growing guidelines for a thriving, productive bay laurel specimen. Pay close attention to providing ample bright light, moderate humidity, moisture retentive yet well-draining soil, and regular fertilization. Incorporate homegrown bay leaves into your favorite Mediterranean recipes!
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Common Problems With Bay Laurel
While this is a fairly trouble-free plant, both as an indoor plant and outdoor specimen, some common problems may occur.
Winter Dieback
Winter dieback can happen with both garden grown and potted bay laurels that are left outdoors too long as winter approaches. If your bay laurel is hit by a light frost, the leaves will probably turn brown and dry. Often the tree will recover on its own the following spring.
If your tree does show signs of die-back in the spring, prune the stems down to below the damage. In extreme cases, cut the entire plant down to about 6 inches and allow new shoots to form from the base.