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Can You Grow Lemon Balm in Minnesota?

US · USDA Zone 4a · zones 2b, 3a, 3b, 4a, 4b

Grows well here

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

Plant zones

3a–9b

Minnesota last frost

late April

Minnesota first frost

early October

Days to harvest

60–70 days

When to plant Lemon Balms in Minnesota

Start indoors

Mar 14

Transplant

Apr 25

Harvest

Jun 24 – Jul 4

Dates are approximate, based on Minnesota'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 Minnesota

Minnesota has a cold humid continental climate. The Twin Cities are Zone 4b-5a; northern Minnesota reaches Zone 2b-3a. Cold winters but warm productive summers.