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Can You Grow Lemon Balm in Vermont?

US · USDA Zone 5a · 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

Vermont last frost

mid-April

Vermont first frost

mid-October

Days to harvest

60–70 days

When to plant Lemon Balms in Vermont

Start indoors

Mar 3

Transplant

Apr 15

Harvest

Jun 14 – Jun 24

Dates are approximate, based on Vermont'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 Vermont

Vermont has a cool humid continental climate. Southern Vermont is Zone 5a-5b; northern Vermont is Zone 4a-4b. Short growing seasons are productive for cool crops, potatoes, and maple trees.