When to Plant Lemon Balm in Del Norte County, CA
Lemon balm is a vigorous perennial herb with bright green, lemon-scented leaves. It makes a refreshing tea and is easy to grow but can spread aggressively.
Del Norte County, California is in USDA Zone 8b. The average last spring frost is March 27 and the first fall frost is November 20, giving you a growing season of approximately 238 days.
At an elevation of 72 feet, Del Norte County receives approximately 43.8 inches of rainfall annually with predominantly sandy loam soil. Summer highs average 89°F, providing good warmth for Lemon Balm during the growing season. Sandy soil warms quickly in spring — great for early planting — but Lemon Balm will need more frequent watering and organic matter to retain nutrients.
Del Norte County Soil Profile
Soil Type
Sandy Loam
Soil pH
5.9-7
Drainage
Well Drained
Plant Planting Risk Windows
Percentages indicate frost risk at transplant. The 70% safe window means there is a 30% chance of frost after transplant — suitable for cold-hardy crops or gardeners with frost protection. The 90% safe window is best for tender plants.
Plant Water Budget
Lemon Balm Planting Timeline — Del Norte County, CA
Lemon Balm Planting Calendar
| Activity | When | Date Range |
|---|---|---|
| Transplant Outdoors | April 3 | Apr 3 – Apr 17 |
| Harvest | June 5 | Jun 5 – Jul 24 |
Plant 0.5" deep · 8" apart · Rows 12" apart
Month-by-Month Timeline
| Month | Activities |
|---|---|
| January | — |
| February | — |
| March | — |
| April | Transplant Outdoors |
| May | — |
| June | Harvest |
| July | Harvest |
| August | — |
| September | — |
| October | — |
| November | — |
| December | — |
Growing Conditions
Sun
Partial Shade (3-6 hours)
Water
Moderate — regular watering
Days to Maturity
60–70 days
Soil pH
5.5 – 7.5
USDA Zone
Zone 8b
Growing Season
238 days
Growing Tips for Del Norte County
Start from seed, cuttings, or divisions. Contain in pots or use barriers to prevent spreading. Harvest frequently to keep plants bushy and prevent flowering.
Companion Planting
Good Companions
Level Up Your Garden
Lemon Balm in Other Locations
Frequently Asked Questions
When should I plant Lemon Balm in Del Norte County, CA?
Del Norte County is in Zone 8b with an average last frost of March 27. Plan your Lemon Balm planting based on this frost date — see the calendar above for exact timing.
What planting zone is Del Norte County, CA?
Del Norte County, California is in USDA Hardiness Zone 8b. The average last spring frost is March 27 and first fall frost is November 20.
Plan Your Garden with Confidence
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