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Can You Grow Bay Laurel in Nova Scotia?

Canada · Canadian Zone 6 · zones 5, 6

Grow indoors

Grow in a large pot and bring indoors before temperatures drop below 20°F (-7°C).

Plant zones

8a–10b

Nova Scotia last frost

early April

Nova Scotia first frost

late October

Days to harvest

180–365 days

When to plant Bay Laurels in Nova Scotia

Direct sow

Apr 1

Harvest

Sep 28 – Apr 1

Dates are approximate, based on Nova Scotia's average frost dates. Your exact yard may vary by microclimate.

About Bay Laurel

Bay laurel is the source of the bay leaf in every spice rack — a slow-growing Mediterranean shrub that can be kept compact in a container. The fresh leaves are far more aromatic than dried store-bought.

Buy a young plant rather than starting from seed (germination is extremely slow and unreliable). Grow in a large container so it can be moved indoors in cold climates. Very slow growing — harvest lightly the first year. Allow leaves to dry on the branch for best flavour.

Full bay laurel growing guide →

Gardening in Nova Scotia

Nova Scotia has a maritime climate moderated by the Atlantic. Most of the province is Zone 5b-6a; the Annapolis Valley is Zone 6a-6b and one of Canada's premier apple-growing regions.