HomeLemon Balm › Grow in South Dakota

Can You Grow Lemon Balm in South Dakota?

US · USDA Zone 4b · zones 3b, 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

South Dakota last frost

mid-April

South Dakota first frost

mid-October

Days to harvest

60–70 days

When to plant Lemon Balms in South Dakota

Start indoors

Mar 3

Transplant

Apr 15

Harvest

Jun 14 – Jun 24

Dates are approximate, based on South Dakota'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 South Dakota

South Dakota has a continental climate with cold winters and warm summers. Eastern South Dakota is Zone 4b-5a; western South Dakota is colder. Short growing seasons.

See what grows well in South Dakota →

Frequently asked questions

Can you grow Lemon Balm in South Dakota?

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

What zone is South Dakota?

South Dakota spans USDA Zone 4b (3b, 4a, 4b, 5a, 5b).

When do you plant Lemon Balms in South Dakota?

Plant Lemon Balms around mid-April (start indoors Mar 3), harvest Jun 14 – Jun 24.