Sowing window (UK)April to May
Spacing120 cm apart
Days to germination28 days
Days to harvest365 days
Sowing methodStart under cover, transplant out
Frost hardyYes
Sunfull-sun
Wateringlow
Plant familyLauraceae

When should I sow Bay in the UK?

In the UK, sow Bay from April to May. It is normally started under cover and transplanted.

How deep and how far apart should I sow Bay?

For Bay, space plants 120cm apart.

How long does Bay take to grow?

Bay takes roughly 365 days from sowing to harvest. Seed usually germinates in about 28 days.

Is Bay frost hardy?

Yes. Bay is frost hardy and will stand through UK frosts, so it can be left out over winter in most of the country.

Sowing data cross-checked against RHS growing guides and UK seed-merchant catalogues. Soil temperatures are the minimum for reliable germination, measured at seed depth.