HomeBay Laurel › Grow in Virginia

Can You Grow Bay Laurel in Virginia?

US · USDA Zone 7a · zones 5b, 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

Virginia last frost

early March

Virginia first frost

late November

Days to harvest

180–365 days

When to plant Bay Laurels in Virginia

Direct sow

Mar 7

Harvest

Sep 3 – Mar 7

Dates are approximate, based on Virginia'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 Virginia

Virginia ranges from Zone 5b in the mountains to Zone 7b on the coast. The Shenandoah Valley is Zone 6b-7a. Four seasons with a long productive growing window in most areas.

See what grows well in Virginia →

Frequently asked questions

Can you grow Bay Laurel in Virginia?

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

What zone is Virginia?

Virginia spans USDA Zone 7a (5b, 6a, 6b, 7a, 7b).

When do you plant Bay Laurels in Virginia?

Plant Bay Laurels Mar 7, harvest Sep 3 – Mar 7.