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Can You Grow Bay Laurel in South Dakota?

US · USDA Zone 4b · zones 3b, 4a, 4b, 5a, 5b

Won't grow here

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

Plant zones

8a–10b

South Dakota last frost

mid-April

South Dakota first frost

mid-October

Days to harvest

180–365 days

When to plant Bay Laurels in South Dakota

Direct sow

Apr 15

Harvest

Oct 12 – Apr 15

Dates are approximate, based on South 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 South Dakota

South Dakota has a continental climate with cold winters and warm summers. Eastern South Dakota is Zone 4b-5a; western South Dakota is colder. Short growing seasons.

See what grows well in South Dakota →

Frequently asked questions

Can you grow Bay Laurel in South Dakota?

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

What zone is South Dakota?

South Dakota spans USDA Zone 4b (3b, 4a, 4b, 5a, 5b).

When do you plant Bay Laurels in South Dakota?

Plant Bay Laurels Apr 15, harvest Oct 12 – Apr 15.