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Can You Grow Lemon Balm in Iowa?

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

Grows well here

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

Plant zones

3a–9b

Iowa last frost

mid-April

Iowa first frost

mid-October

Days to harvest

60–70 days

When to plant Lemon Balms in Iowa

Start indoors

Mar 3

Transplant

Apr 15

Harvest

Jun 14 – Jun 24

Dates are approximate, based on Iowa'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 Iowa

Iowa has a humid continental climate with cold winters and warm summers. Most of the state is Zone 5a-5b. Excellent for cool-season crops and hardy fruits.