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Can You Grow Bay Laurel in Ohio?

US · USDA Zone 5b · zones 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

Ohio last frost

early April

Ohio first frost

late October

Days to harvest

180–365 days

When to plant Bay Laurels in Ohio

Direct sow

Apr 7

Harvest

Oct 4 – Apr 7

Dates are approximate, based on Ohio'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 Ohio

Ohio has a humid continental climate. Northern Ohio near Lake Erie is Zone 6a; inland areas are Zone 5b. Four seasons with a productive 6-month growing window.