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Can You Grow Bay Laurel in Georgia?

US · USDA Zone 8a · zones 6b, 7a, 7b, 8a, 8b

Grows well here

Bay laurel grows outdoors year-round in your zone — expect a handsome long-lived shrub.

Plant zones

8a–10b

Georgia last frost

mid-February

Georgia first frost

early December

Days to harvest

180–365 days

When to plant Bay Laurels in Georgia

Direct sow

Feb 15

Harvest

Aug 14 – Feb 15

Dates are approximate, based on Georgia'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 Georgia

Georgia has a humid subtropical climate with hot summers and mild winters. A long growing season supports two full vegetable crops per year in most of the state.

See what grows well in Georgia →

Frequently asked questions

Can you grow Bay Laurel in Georgia?

Bay laurel grows outdoors year-round in your zone — expect a handsome long-lived shrub.

What zone is Georgia?

Georgia spans USDA Zone 8a (6b, 7a, 7b, 8a, 8b).

When do you plant Bay Laurels in Georgia?

Plant Bay Laurels Feb 15, harvest Aug 14 – Feb 15.