When to Plant Lemon Balm in Summit County, OH
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.
Summit County, Ohio is in USDA Zone 5b. The average last spring frost is May 4 and the first fall frost is October 13, giving you a growing season of approximately 162 days.
At an elevation of 1,309 feet, Summit County receives approximately 33.4 inches of rainfall annually with predominantly silt loam soil. Summer highs average 88°F, providing good warmth for Lemon Balm during the growing season.
Summit County Soil Profile
Soil Type
Silt Loam
Soil pH
5.8-6.7
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
Water stress score is 6/10 — consider drought-tolerant varieties and mulching
Lemon Balm Planting Timeline — Summit County, OH
Lemon Balm Planting Calendar
| Activity | When | Date Range |
|---|---|---|
| Transplant Outdoors | May 11 | May 11 – May 25 |
| Harvest | July 13 | Jul 13 – Aug 31 |
Plant 0.5" deep · 8" apart · Rows 12" apart
Month-by-Month Timeline
| Month | Activities |
|---|---|
| January | — |
| February | — |
| March | — |
| April | — |
| May | Transplant Outdoors |
| June | — |
| July | Harvest |
| August | Harvest |
| 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 5b
Growing Season
162 days
Growing Tips for Summit 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 Summit County, OH?
Summit County is in Zone 5b with an average last frost of May 4. Plan your Lemon Balm planting based on this frost date — see the calendar above for exact timing.
What planting zone is Summit County, OH?
Summit County, Ohio is in USDA Hardiness Zone 5b. The average last spring frost is May 4 and first fall frost is October 13.
Plan Your Garden with Confidence
Get our free Garden Planner — designed to help Summit County gardeners in Zone 5b organize planting dates, track what's growing, and never miss a planting window.
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