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Can You Grow Lemon Balm in New Mexico?

US · USDA Zone 7b · zones 4a, 4b, 5a, 5b, 6a, 6b, 7a, 8a

Grows well here

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

Plant zones

3a–9b

New Mexico last frost

late February

New Mexico first frost

early December

Days to harvest

60–70 days

When to plant Lemon Balms in New Mexico

Start indoors

Jan 17

Transplant

Feb 28

Harvest

Apr 29 – May 9

Dates are approximate, based on New Mexico'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 New Mexico

New Mexico has an arid continental climate. Albuquerque is Zone 7a; Santa Fe is Zone 6b; southern desert areas are Zone 8a-9a. Low humidity means dramatic temperature swings.

See what grows well in New Mexico →

Frequently asked questions

Can you grow Lemon Balm in New Mexico?

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

What zone is New Mexico?

New Mexico spans USDA Zone 7b (4a, 4b, 5a, 5b, 6a, 6b, 7a, 8a).

When do you plant Lemon Balms in New Mexico?

Plant Lemon Balms around late February (start indoors Jan 17), harvest Apr 29 – May 9.