Home › Lemon Balm › Grow in New York

Can You Grow Lemon Balm in New York?

US · USDA Zone 6a · zones 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

New York last frost

early April

New York first frost

late October

Days to harvest

60–70 days

When to plant Lemon Balms in New York

Start indoors

Feb 17

Transplant

Apr 1

Harvest

May 31 – Jun 10

Dates are approximate, based on New York'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 York

New York ranges from Zone 6b in New York City to Zone 4a in the Adirondacks. Western New York near Lake Erie has a unique microclimate excellent for Concord grapes.

See what grows well in New York →

Frequently asked questions

Can you grow Lemon Balm in New York?

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

What zone is New York?

New York spans USDA Zone 6a (4a, 4b, 5a, 5b, 6a, 6b).

When do you plant Lemon Balms in New York?

Plant Lemon Balms around early April (start indoors Feb 17), harvest May 31 – Jun 10.