When to Plant Lemon Balm in Deschutes County, OR
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.
Deschutes County, Oregon is in USDA Zone 6a. The average last spring frost is June 15 and the first fall frost is September 13, giving you a growing season of approximately 90 days.
At an elevation of 221 feet, Deschutes County receives approximately 54.7 inches of rainfall annually with predominantly silt loam soil. Summer highs average 81°F, so choose short-season varieties of Lemon Balm to ensure they mature before fall. Ample rainfall means less supplemental watering, but ensure good drainage to prevent Lemon Balm root diseases.
Deschutes County Soil Profile
Soil Type
Silt Loam
Soil pH
5.4-6.2
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 — Deschutes County, OR
Lemon Balm Planting Calendar
| Activity | When | Date Range |
|---|---|---|
| Transplant Outdoors | June 22 | Jun 22 – Jul 6 |
| Harvest | August 24 | Aug 24 – Oct 12 |
Plant 0.5" deep · 8" apart · Rows 12" apart
Month-by-Month Timeline
| Month | Activities |
|---|---|
| January | — |
| February | — |
| March | — |
| April | — |
| May | — |
| June | Transplant Outdoors |
| July | Transplant Outdoors |
| 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 6a
Growing Season
90 days
Growing Tips for Deschutes 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 Deschutes County, OR?
Deschutes County is in Zone 6a with an average last frost of June 15. Plan your Lemon Balm planting based on this frost date — see the calendar above for exact timing.
What planting zone is Deschutes County, OR?
Deschutes County, Oregon is in USDA Hardiness Zone 6a. The average last spring frost is June 15 and first fall frost is September 13.
Plan Your Garden with Confidence
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