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Can You Grow Bay Laurel in Connecticut?

US · USDA Zone 6a · zones 5b, 6a, 6b

Won't grow here

Bay laurel is frost-tender but makes a stunning container plant that overwinters beautifully indoors.

Plant zones

8a–10b

Connecticut last frost

early April

Connecticut first frost

late October

Days to harvest

180–365 days

When to plant Bay Laurels in Connecticut

Direct sow

Apr 1

Harvest

Sep 28 – Apr 1

Dates are approximate, based on Connecticut'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 Connecticut

Connecticut has a humid continental climate with warm summers and cold winters. Four distinct seasons support a classic New England growing calendar.

See what grows well in Connecticut →

Frequently asked questions

Can you grow Bay Laurel in Connecticut?

Bay laurel is frost-tender but makes a stunning container plant that overwinters beautifully indoors.

What zone is Connecticut?

Connecticut spans USDA Zone 6a (5b, 6a, 6b).

When do you plant Bay Laurels in Connecticut?

Plant Bay Laurels Apr 1, harvest Sep 28 – Apr 1.