When to Plant Lemon Balm in Bath County, VA
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.
Bath County, Virginia is in USDA Zone 6a. The average last spring frost is April 21 and the first fall frost is October 22, giving you a growing season of approximately 184 days.
At an elevation of 1,005 feet, Bath County receives approximately 43.9 inches of rainfall annually with predominantly silt loam soil. Summer highs average 89°F, providing good warmth for Lemon Balm during the growing season.
Bath County Soil Profile
Soil Type
Silt Loam
Soil pH
5.7-6.8
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 — Bath County, VA
Lemon Balm Planting Calendar
| Activity | When | Date Range |
|---|---|---|
| Transplant Outdoors | April 28 | Apr 28 – May 12 |
| Harvest | June 30 | Jun 30 – Aug 18 |
Plant 0.5" deep · 8" apart · Rows 12" apart
Month-by-Month Timeline
| Month | Activities |
|---|---|
| January | — |
| February | — |
| March | — |
| April | Transplant Outdoors |
| May | Transplant Outdoors |
| June | Harvest |
| 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 6a
Growing Season
184 days
Growing Tips for Bath 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 Bath County, VA?
Bath County is in Zone 6a with an average last frost of April 21. Plan your Lemon Balm planting based on this frost date — see the calendar above for exact timing.
What planting zone is Bath County, VA?
Bath County, Virginia is in USDA Hardiness Zone 6a. The average last spring frost is April 21 and first fall frost is October 22.
Plan Your Garden with Confidence
Get our free Garden Planner — designed to help Bath County gardeners in Zone 6a organize planting dates, track what's growing, and never miss a planting window.
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