Frenchy - I would say not to give up. If I can do it in NJ, you can do it in VA. It isn't my first bay plant but I have it for a few years now. It isn't dense and bushy but it's a solid plant and probably the only tender mediterranean I've been able to keep alive by bringing it in and outside the house every year. I don't give it much, just keep making the pot bigger once in a while. I grow it in high shade outside as soon as the whether stays above 40 and then it goes in my basement. It isn't directly under lights either. Anyway, it is only really worth it if you want it for the kitchen.
