Garden herbs

Herb: Bay (Laurus Nobilis)

Background: Bay was the laurel used in the wreaths with which the ancient Romans and Greeks crowned their athletes.

Garden herb type: Perennial evergreen tree.

Growing this herb: You would have to buy a small tree. Once established cuttings can be taken from side shoots in late summer. The leaves can be picked throughout the year.

Soil condition and garden position: The Bay likes a sunny place. If the winters are known to be hard the tree should be pot grown and brought in. For container growing it can be kept clipped right back to a suitable size.

Appearance: The tree can grow to 40 feet. Its leaves are shiny and dark green, the flowers light yellow and the fruit purple. Uses: Bay leaves are a component of bouquet garni.

Uses: the leaves in soups and marinades. Add to dry rice to impart its spicy flavour and to meat and vegetable dishes.

Nurturing herbs is an important part of gardening. Gardening Tools Direct have endeavored to group this information together for your interest. Please also see our garden related products: