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Can You Grow Bay Laurel in Michigan?

US · USDA Zone 5b · zones 4a, 4b, 5a, 5b, 6a

Won't grow here

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

Plant zones

8a–10b

Michigan last frost

early April

Michigan first frost

late October

Days to harvest

180–365 days

When to plant Bay Laurels in Michigan

Direct sow

Apr 7

Harvest

Oct 4 – Apr 7

Dates are approximate, based on Michigan'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 Michigan

Michigan has a humid continental climate moderated by the Great Lakes. Southern Michigan is Zone 5b-6a; the Upper Peninsula is Zone 4a-5a. Known for fruit crops along Lake Michigan.