How-to Guide
How to Grow Bay Laurel
The short answer
Bay laurel (Laurus nobilis) is a slow-growing evergreen from the Mediterranean whose leaves flavor cooking. It is hardy outdoors only in about USDA zone 8 and warmer, so in colder areas it is usually grown in a container that can be moved indoors for winter.
Its slow growth suits pot culture: use a container with drainage holes and a well-drained mix that still holds some moisture. It is a heavy feeder, and nutrient shortages show as leaf yellowing and brown spots. Prune regularly to keep container plants compact and shaped.
Container growing
A potted bay stays compact, often under six feet, and can live in the same pot for years. Repot up a size only every few years.
- 1Pot with drainage — Use a container with drainage holes and a well-drained potting mix that retains some moisture.
- 2Overwinter indoors — In zones colder than 8, bring the pot indoors before hard frost and return it outside after the cold passes.
- 3Feed and prune — Feed regularly to prevent leaf yellowing, and prune to shape and maintain size.
Harvesting
Pick mature leaves as needed year-round; older leaves are often considered more flavorful. Because bay is slow-growing, harvest moderately so the plant can replace foliage.
✔ Regular light pruning doubles as a harvest and keeps a container bay dense and tidy.
Sources
Reviewed 2026-07-18. We cite university Extension, government, and established horticultural sources — and never invent pesticide rates or dangerous treatments.
- UC Master Gardeners of Santa Clara County — Bay Laurel — Bay laurel is slow-growing, suited to containers, and can reach large size in mild climates; culinary evergreen care.
- Illinois Extension — Bay Laurel — Laurus nobilis is a tender Mediterranean evergreen grown in containers and overwintered indoors in cold zones.
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