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Can You Grow Bay Laurel in North Dakota?

US · USDA Zone 4a · zones 3a, 3b, 4a, 4b

Won't grow here

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

Plant zones

8a–10b

North Dakota last frost

late April

North Dakota first frost

early October

Days to harvest

180–365 days

When to plant Bay Laurels in North Dakota

Direct sow

Apr 25

Harvest

Oct 22 – Apr 25

Dates are approximate, based on North Dakota'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 North Dakota

North Dakota has a harsh continental climate with cold winters and short warm summers. Most of the state is Zone 3b-4a. Focus on cold-hardy crops and short-season varieties.