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Can You Grow Lemon Balm in Colorado?

US · USDA Zone 5b · zones 3a, 3b, 4a, 4b, 5a, 5b, 6a, 6b

Grows well here

Lemon balm grows as a vigorous perennial in your zone — contain it or it will take over.

Plant zones

3a–9b

Colorado last frost

early April

Colorado first frost

late October

Days to harvest

60–70 days

When to plant Lemon Balms in Colorado

Start indoors

Feb 23

Transplant

Apr 7

Harvest

Jun 6 – Jun 16

Dates are approximate, based on Colorado's average frost dates. Your exact yard may vary by microclimate.

About Lemon Balm

Lemon balm is a prolific mint-family herb with bright citrus fragrance. Used for teas, desserts, and calming remedies. Warning: it self-seeds aggressively — grow in containers to prevent garden takeover.

Grow in a container to control spreading. Harvest before flowering for best flavor. Cut back hard in midsummer to encourage fresh growth. Tolerates partial shade better than most herbs.

Full lemon balm growing guide →

Gardening in Colorado

Colorado has a semi-arid mountain climate with intense sunshine and low humidity. Front Range cities like Denver are Zone 5-6; higher elevations are Zones 3-4.

See what grows well in Colorado →

Frequently asked questions

Can you grow Lemon Balm in Colorado?

Lemon balm grows as a vigorous perennial in your zone — contain it or it will take over.

What zone is Colorado?

Colorado spans USDA Zone 5b (3a, 3b, 4a, 4b, 5a, 5b, 6a, 6b).

When do you plant Lemon Balms in Colorado?

Plant Lemon Balms around early April (start indoors Feb 23), harvest Jun 6 – Jun 16.