Bay Leaf . Not the most glamorous name , but trust me , it ’s a game changer in the kitchen . If you ’ve ever total a bay leaf to a simmer pot of soup or stew , you roll in the hay it has this witching way of compound flavors without overpowering them . It ’s like the quiet brain of the spicery earthly concern — subtle , yet essential .
This evergreen tree might not snap up your attention at first , but the moment you rip a fresh foliage off and crush it between your finger , the smell will strike you like a tiny , fragrant violent storm . Bay parting bring warmth and complexness to so many dish , and if you ’re into herbal medicine , they ’ve got you covered too — mass have been using them for everything fromdigestive health to anxiety relieffor centuries .
They thrive in gay , well - drain spot and want a small patience while they get established , but once they do , they ’re broken - maintenance and tough as nail . They ’re deadening - growers , but give them a little space to stretch out out , and you ’ll get a tree that can live for age , providing fresh leaves whenever you need them .
The tree itself ? A thing of beauty . Glossy , dark green leaves with a waxy shininess that make it look like it ’s always had a estimable skincare routine . Just do n’t expect it to start handing out flavorsome leaves right off . Like all adept thing , bay leaves take their time .
How to Grow Bay Leaf
Growing bay leaf plant can be a rewarding gardening experience , as they provide overbold leaves for cooking and have a pleasant aroma . Below is a guide to growing bay leaf .
Planting Bay Leaf
Growing Bay Leaf
Harvesting Bay Leaf
Additional Tips
Bay Leaf Growing Zone
Bay Stan Laurel ( Laurus nobilis ) , commonly known as bay leaf , is a stalwart evergreen tree or shrub that is typically grown in USDA hardiness zone 8 through 10 . This plant prefers a Mediterranean climate , with meek , wet winters and spicy , ironical summer .
If you hold up in a ice chest zone , you may still grow bay laurel in a pot and bring it indoors during the wintertime months to protect it from frost .
Growing Bay Leaf FAQ
Yes , Bay Leaf plants can be grown indoors , specially in regions with cold winters . direct them near a cheery window where they can have at least 6 hours of direct sun daily . Rotate the plant sporadically to secure even growth .
Bay leafage can be harvested once the flora is well - established , typically after 2 - 3 years . peck ripe , level-headed foliage and dry them in a cool , non-white place before store them in an airtight container .
Bay Leaf industrial plant turn slowly , engage several years to strive a altitude of 6 to 12 feet ( 1.8 to 3.6 meters ) when planted outdoors . Indoor plants will grow tiresome due to the controlled environment .
Yes , Bay Leaf plant can be propagate from cuttings or seed . cutting taken in the natural spring or summertime root more easy . Seeds can be planted in well - draining territory , but sprouting can be slow and erratic .
