Bay laurel (Laurus nobilis) is an aromatic herb that has been used for centuries for its culinary and medicinal properties. The glossy green leaves impart a sweet, spicy flavor to soups, stews, meat dishes, and more. While bay laurel is native to the Mediterranean region, it can be grown successfully in pots, making it possible to enjoy fresh bay leaves even in colder climates. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll cover everything you need to know about growing bay laurel in pots and reaping the benefits of this versatile herb.
Selecting a Bay Laurel Plant
When choosing a bay laurel plant for your container garden, opt for a young seedling or small transplant. Mature bay laurel trees can grow quite large, up to 50 feet tall, so a smaller plant is ideal for pot culture Look for plants labeled Laurus nobilis at your local nursery Seedlings are inexpensive but slow growing. For quicker results, choose a transplant that is 6-12 inches tall. Select a plant with lush green leaves and avoid any that appear yellow, wilted or damaged.
Choosing the Right Pot
Bay laurel thrives in a roomy container that allows ample space for root growth. Choose a pot that is at least 12 inches wide and has drainage holes. Terra cotta plastic and ceramic pots all work well. For outdoor growing look for pots that are weather resistant. Make sure the pot is heavy enough to be stable in windy conditions. Add a drainage layer of pebbles or broken terracotta shards to improve drainage.
The Best Soil Mix
Bay laurel prefers loose, fertile soil that drains well. A premium potting mix amended with compost is ideal. You can make your own by mixing equal parts potting soil, compost, and perlite or sand. The perlite boosts drainage to prevent soggy soil. If your potting mix contains fertilizer, no additional nutrients are needed when first planting.
Caring for Your Bay Laurel
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Light: Bay laurel thrives in full sun but tolerates light shade. Rotate the pot periodically to encourage even growth.
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Water: Allow the soil to dry out slightly between waterings. Water thoroughly until it drains from the bottom.
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Temperature: Bay laurel prefers daytime temperatures between 60-80°F and nights no lower than 45°F. It tolerates brief dips to freezing but sustained cold will damage the plant.
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Fertilizer: Feed every 2-3 months during the growing season with a balanced liquid fertilizer or slow release pellets.
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Pruning: Trim back leggy stems in spring to shape the plant. Prune lightly after harvesting.
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Overwintering: Bring pots indoors before frost. Cool temperatures around 50-60°F are ideal for dormancy.
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Repotting: Repot in spring every 2-3 years when roots fill the pot. Move to a slightly larger container.
Harvesting Bay Leaves
Harvest leaves as needed once the plant is established, usually after 6-9 months. Select leaves from the outside of the plant, rather than interior leaves which promote continued growth. Rinse and pat leaves dry. Use fresh leaves within a few days or air dry completely before storage. To dry, hang small bundles or place leaves in a single layer in a dark, well-ventilated area. Store dried leaves in an airtight container out of direct light. Both dried and fresh leaves impart excellent flavor but dried leaves are stronger. Remove leaves before freezing weather and harvest again in spring after new growth emerges. With proper care, your bay laurel will provide aromatic leaves for many years to come.
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Grow Your Own Bay Laurel Leaves
Bay laurel is a perennial herb that grows much like a bush or a tree. In warmer climates, this evergreen can be grown in the landscape. I actually planted a couple bay laurel bushes in my front yard in Houston that grew at least a foot taller each year. Not only are the leaves edible, the plant itself is beautiful year round (my neighbors probably had no idea those “ornamental bushes” in my flower beds were giving me delicious leaves to toss into soups and stews).
If cared for properly, this herb can give you years of enjoyment and flavorful leaves.
How To Grow Bay Laurel in Pots – Complete Care Guide
FAQ
Does laurel do well in pots?
Because they are grown in containers, their root systems are well-established and self-contained. This means you can buy potted laurels and keep them in their pots until you are ready to plant (assuming you keep them well watered of course).
Can bay laurel be kept small?
Bay Laurel can be used as a small tree in an herb garden, or plant several of them for a screen or a privacy hedge. It can also be pruned into a topiary.
Do bay laurels like full sun or shade?
Bay Laurel trees thrive in areas with well-drained soil and full sun to light shade and will be happy indoors for months at a time.
Does bay laurel need a lot of water?
You will need to water bay laurel regularly, but not more than once a week, once established, except in very hot, prolonged dry spells. Of course, since this is a culinary plant, you’ll want to harvest some of the leaves, which you can do at any time of the year.