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Can You Grow Lemon Balm in Florida?

US · USDA Zone 9b · zones 8a, 8b, 9a, 9b, 10a, 10b

Grows well here

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

Plant zones

3a–9b

Florida last frost

mid-January

Florida first frost

late December

Days to harvest

60–70 days

When to plant Lemon Balms in Florida

Start indoors

Jan 1

Transplant

Jan 10

Harvest

Mar 11 – Mar 21

Dates are approximate, based on Florida'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 Florida

Florida is largely subtropical to tropical. North Florida has mild winters; South Florida and the Keys are essentially frost-free. Year-round growing is standard statewide.