Hi Guest I think you will find them rather unhappy in barrel in winter, you could always have it out from spring through autumn and then bring inside in winter to a cool room. Remember it will grow to about 10 foot.

Before it was in the ground I had my bay tree in a tub outside, no problems, but it was right next to the house wall. There it didn't get snowed on and probably benefited from heat loss from the house.

It is also likely to be warmer where you live Elleme, as you are in a built up area.