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Can You Grow Lemon Balm in Oregon?

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

Grows well here

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

Plant zones

3a–9b

Oregon last frost

late January

Oregon first frost

mid-December

Days to harvest

60–70 days

When to plant Lemon Balms in Oregon

Start indoors

Jan 1

Transplant

Jan 30

Harvest

Mar 31 – Apr 10

Dates are approximate, based on Oregon'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 Oregon

Oregon has dramatically different climates west and east of the Cascades. The Willamette Valley is mild and productive year-round (Zone 8a-8b); eastern Oregon is semi-arid and colder (Zone 5-6).