Are you growing bay leaf in Ohio, but don’t know when the best time to harvest them is?
Harvesting bay leaf is not as easy as it seems.
Here’s why:
- Bay Leaf has a very short window when it can be harvested and still taste great.
So if you harvest them too early they may not be ready and taste bad. And if you harvest them too late they may become infected with mold, fungus, insects, etc., and become inedible.
Today, I’m going to teach you the ideal time to harvest bay leaf in Ohio:
- To Learn More About HOW to Grow Bay Leaf, Check Out This GUIDE!
When Do I Harvest Bay Leaf in Ohio?
As you may have already guessed, there are two main factors that determine when you should harvest your bay leaf: the physical features of the bay leaf & weather (time).
Harvest Bay Leaf if They Look Like This!!!
The physical features of bay leaf are what most gardeners commonly rely on to determine if they are ready to be picked off the plant or not.
In general, you should harvest bay leaf if they have the following physical features:
- The leaves of bay leaf are wide, long, and dark green (or purple) in color and are at least 3 inches long.
Harvest Your Bay Leaf During THIS Time of Year!!!
In general, you should harvest rhubarb:
- 360 to 720 days after starting bay leaf from seed
- Immediately after planting bay leaf in your garden
And no matter what, you should ALWAYS harvest your bay leaf before the first frost of the year. Frost will immediately kill your bay leaf plant and make your bay leaf inedible.
For your reference, I have created this table for average frost dates for most major cities in Ohio. If your city is not listed below you can find its Last & First Frost Dates HERE.
Ohio Last & First Frost Dates
It should be noted that you should not overly rely on the first frost of the year. The average first frost of the year is only correct 30% of the time.
Instead, pay close attention to your local weather.
When you know a frost is coming you need to take action.
- If bay leaf are in pots, bring them inside
- If bay leaf is in the ground, cover them in burlap and hope they survive
- Pick all bay leaf.
If you want to learn WHEN to harvest ANY Vegetable in Ohio, head over to HERE and just type in the vegetable you want to grow.
