Lemon Balm Planting Guide
Lemon-scented perennial herb used in teas, cooking, and as a calming remedy
Best Time and Place to Plant Lemon Balm
In USDA zone 7, the typical spring window is March 1 to May 1. Cooler zones usually plant later; warmer zones plant earlier.
Plant Lemon Balm in a spot with 4+ hours of direct sun, soil warmed to 55F to 80F, and enough room for 24 inches between plants and 24 inches between rows.
Planting Windows by Zone
| Zone | Spring | Fall |
|---|---|---|
| Zone 1 | May 1 to June 15 | August 1 to August 30 |
| Zone 2 | April 20 to June 10 | August 10 to September 15 |
| Zone 3 | April 10 to May 30 | August 15 to September 30 |
| Zone 4 | April 1 to May 20 | August 20 to October 1 |
| Zone 5 | March 20 to May 15 | August 25 to October 10 |
| Zone 6 | March 10 to May 10 | September 1 to October 20 |
| Zone 7 | March 1 to May 1 | September 10 to November 1 |
| Zone 8 | February 15 to April 20 | September 20 to November 15 |
| Zone 9 | February 1 to April 10 | October 1 to December 1 |
| Zone 10 | January 15 to March 30 | October 15 to December 15 |
| Zone 11 | Year-round to Year-round | Varies |
| Zone 12 | Year-round to Year-round | Varies |
| Zone 13 | Year-round to Year-round | Varies |
Spacing and Care
- Planting depth: 0.25 inches deep
- Spacing: 24 inches apart, 24 inches between rows
- Soil temperature: 55F to 80F
- Sunlight: 4+ hours
- Watering: Water 2-3 times per week; prefers moist but not waterlogged soil
- Days to harvest: 50
Fertilization
- Balanced 10-10-10 synthetic: Light feeding in spring
- Compost organic: 1 inch worked into soil
Companion Plants
- Tomatoes
- Squash
- Beans
Avoid Planting Near
No avoid-planting conflicts are listed yet.
Harvest Signs
- Harvest young leaves before plant flowers
- Cut stems back by half regularly to prevent bolting
- Most fragrant in morning before heat intensifies oils
- Use fresh or dry quickly to preserve lemon scent
FAQs
When should I plant Lemon Balm?
Lemon Balm planting depends on your USDA hardiness zone. In USDA zone 7, the typical spring window is March 1 to May 1. Cooler zones usually plant later; warmer zones plant earlier.
What is the best time of year to plant Lemon Balm?
The best time of year to plant Lemon Balm is when your zone planting window is open and soil temperatures are around 55F to 80F. In USDA zone 7, the typical spring window is March 1 to May 1. Cooler zones usually plant later; warmer zones plant earlier.
Where is the best place to plant Lemon Balm?
Plant Lemon Balm in a spot with 4+ hours of direct sun, soil warmed to 55F to 80F, and enough room for 24 inches between plants and 24 inches between rows.
How far apart should I plant Lemon Balm?
Plant Lemon Balm about 24 inches apart, with rows around 24 inches apart.
What grows well with Lemon Balm?
Lemon Balm is commonly paired with Tomatoes, Squash, Beans.