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Can You Grow Bay Laurel in Maryland?

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

Grow indoors

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

Plant zones

8a–10b

Maryland last frost

early March

Maryland first frost

late November

Days to harvest

180–365 days

When to plant Bay Laurels in Maryland

Direct sow

Mar 7

Harvest

Sep 3 – Mar 7

Dates are approximate, based on Maryland'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 Maryland

Maryland has a humid subtropical climate moderated by the Chesapeake Bay. Four distinct seasons with mild winters in most of the state. Long productive growing season.