Question
How do I care for this herb in upstate NY

Answer
Hi Katherine, the bay leaf likes a more shadier area (morning sun) and likes to be kept more on the damp side, not a difficult plant at all to grow, but very susceptible to cold temps, so it will need to be moved in come winter. Use a container that is large enough for it to expand its root system into and line the bottom with some sort of drainage mix (gravel, pea stone etc.) Once a month hit it with a soluble fertilizer (Peters  or Miracle Grow) and it will thrive nicely for you...:)Nick