Growing Sweet Bay Plants (Laurus nobilis)

Sweet Bay (Laurus nobilis) reaches 40 ft in its native Mediterranean region, but as a slow grower, it stays manageable in containers with occasional clipping. An attractive houseplant providing fragrant, flavorful leaves for cooking or potpourri.

Light

Grows in full sun to partial shade. Place in a south-facing window or where it receives bright light for several hours daily. Note: sunnier conditions require more attentive watering.

Temperature

In fall and winter, keep in a cool room (ideally below 60°F). During active growth in spring and summer, warmer room temperatures and outdoor temperatures above freezing are fine.

Water

Water thoroughly when potting mix feels dry 1 inch below surface. Requires less water in fall and winter, but don't let soil dry out completely.

Fertilizer

No need to fertilize in fall and winter (rest period). In spring, fertilize monthly with balanced houseplant fertilizer (e.g., 10-10-10).

Harvesting Leaves

Harvest any time, but flavor is strongest in mid- to late summer. Pull older leaves (more flavor) rather than new. Essential oils dissipate rapidly—use within a few days. Wash before using.

Pests

Soft-bodied scale (small yellow-brown insects on stems) can be a problem. On container plants, spray entire plant with insecticidal soap, BioNeem, or superior oil labeled for indoor use. Dabbing scale with rubbing alcohol on a cotton swab also works but is time-consuming.

Growing Outdoors

Hardy to Zone 8 (10°F). In cold-winter areas, move outdoors for summer after frost danger passes. Acclimate gradually, keep in light shade for summer, bring back inside before fall frost.

Repotting

After a year or more, when roots are crowded, transplant into a pot 1–2 inches wider with drainage hole. Use fast-draining potting mix. Fill container half-full with moistened mix. Remove plant, gently break up root ball, tease apart circling roots. Set root ball so top is about 1 inch below rim. Fill around, firm lightly, water thoroughly.