When to Plant Lemon Balm in Costilla County, CO
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.
Costilla County, Colorado is in USDA Zone 5a. The average last spring frost is June 8 and the first fall frost is September 16, giving you a growing season of approximately 100 days.
At an elevation of 5,598 feet, Costilla County receives approximately 21 inches of rainfall annually with predominantly loam soil. Summer highs average 86°F, providing good warmth for Lemon Balm during the growing season.
Costilla County Soil Profile
Soil Type
Loam
Soil pH
6.2-8.3
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
Water stress score is 6/10 — consider drought-tolerant varieties and mulching
Lemon Balm Planting Timeline — Costilla County, CO
Lemon Balm Planting Calendar
| Activity | When | Date Range |
|---|---|---|
| Transplant Outdoors | June 15 | Jun 15 – Jun 29 |
| Harvest | August 17 | Aug 17 – Oct 5 |
Plant 0.5" deep · 8" apart · Rows 12" apart
Month-by-Month Timeline
| Month | Activities |
|---|---|
| January | — |
| February | — |
| March | — |
| April | — |
| May | — |
| June | Transplant Outdoors |
| July | — |
| August | Harvest |
| September | Harvest |
| October | Harvest |
| 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 5a
Growing Season
100 days
Growing Tips for Costilla 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 Costilla County, CO?
Costilla County is in Zone 5a with an average last frost of June 8. Plan your Lemon Balm planting based on this frost date — see the calendar above for exact timing.
What planting zone is Costilla County, CO?
Costilla County, Colorado is in USDA Hardiness Zone 5a. The average last spring frost is June 8 and first fall frost is September 16.
Plan Your Garden with Confidence
Get our free Garden Planner — designed to help Costilla County gardeners in Zone 5a organize planting dates, track what's growing, and never miss a planting window.
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