Bay

Bay (Laurus nobilis) is an evergreen Mediterranean tree or large shrub with stiff, aromatic leaves used as a classic cooking herb.

The leaves can be added whole to stocks, sauces, stews, and braises for background flavour and are best removed before serving. Their flavour changes as the leaves are dried, with dried leaves offering a milder, rounder flavour compared to fresh leaves.

Bay trees or shrubs need a sheltered spot, possibly planted in a large pot, and need protecting from hard frosts when young.

It’s best bought as a small plant and grown on. Bay can be difficult to grow from seed, and this process also takes a long time, so starting from plants rather than seeds is worth considering.

You can pick bay leaves all year round.

Our planting guides are designed to help you get the best from your fruit, vegetables, and herbs. Every garden is unique, so growing conditions, weather, soil, and climate can affect results. Use this information as a helpful guide, and adapt it to suit your local conditions and gardening experience. Happy growing!