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Can You Grow Lemon Balm in Washington?

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

Washington last frost

late January

Washington first frost

mid-December

Days to harvest

60–70 days

When to plant Lemon Balms in Washington

Start indoors

Jan 1

Transplant

Jan 30

Harvest

Mar 31 – Apr 10

Dates are approximate, based on Washington'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 Washington

Washington has dramatically different climates. The wet maritime west (Zone 8a-8b) is mild and productive year-round. Eastern Washington is semi-arid and colder (Zone 5-6) with hot dry summers.

See what grows well in Washington →

Frequently asked questions

Can you grow Lemon Balm in Washington?

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

What zone is Washington?

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

When do you plant Lemon Balms in Washington?

Plant Lemon Balms around late January (start indoors Jan 1), harvest Mar 31 – Apr 10.