When to plant Lemon Balm in Nome Census Area, AK
In Nome Census Area, Lemon Balm is a spring-only crop. Plant June 10–June 24 once soil hits 50°F.
When to Plant Lemon Balm in Nome Census Area, AK
June to-do list for Nome Census Area, Alaska
June rewards gardeners who work with the weather, not against it. Here's how to stay in step this month in Nome Census Area, Alaska.
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.
Nome Census Area, Alaska is in USDA Zone 3b. The average last spring frost is June 3 and the first fall frost is September 2, giving you a growing season of approximately 91 days.
At an elevation of 2,593 feet, Nome Census Area receives approximately 39.9 inches of rainfall annually with predominantly silt loam soil. Summer highs average 61°F, so choose short-season varieties of Lemon Balm to ensure they mature before fall.
Nome Census Area Soil Profile
Soil Type
Silt Loam
Soil pH
5-6.7
Drainage
Well Drained
Lemon Balm 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.
Soil Compatibility in Nome Census Area
How your county's soil matches Lemon Balm's growing requirements.
Soil pH
Your soil pH (5.0–6.7) overlaps with Lemon Balm's range (5.5–7.5), though not a perfect match.
Soil Texture
The silt loam soil in Nome Census Area is excellent for Lemon Balm — good drainage, moisture retention, and nutrient holding capacity.
Drainage
Drainage is adequate for Lemon Balm.
Organic Matter
Organic matter is excellent (6.2%) — Lemon Balm will thrive.
How to Plant Lemon Balm
Lemon Balm Water Budget
Monthly Watering Guide for Lemon Balm
Lemon Balm needs approximately 0.5 inches of water per week (2.2" per month). Here's how your county's rainfall compares month by month.
| Month | Lemon Balm Needs | Rainfall | You Supplement | Action |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Jan | — | 2" | 0" | ❄️ Dormant |
| Feb | — | 1.8" | 0" | ❄️ Dormant |
| Mar | — | 1.4" | 0" | ❄️ Dormant |
| Apr | — | 1.4" | 0" | ❄️ Dormant |
| May | — | 1.8" | 0" | ❄️ Dormant |
| Jun | 2.2" | 3.2" | 0" | ✅ Rainfall sufficient |
| Jul | 2.2" | 5.2" | 0" | ✅ Rainfall sufficient |
| Aug | 2.2" | 6.1" | 0" | ✅ Rainfall sufficient |
| Sep | 2.2" | 6.5" | 0" | ✅ Rainfall sufficient |
| Oct | — | 4.8" | 0" | ❄️ Dormant |
| Nov | — | 3.2" | 0" | ❄️ Dormant |
| Dec | — | 2.6" | 0" | ❄️ Dormant |
Water needs are for active growing months only (Jun–Sep in Nome Census Area). Supplement amounts are based on average rainfall — actual needs vary with temperature, soil, and mulching.
Lemon Balm Heat Requirements (GDD)
What are Growing Degree Days (GDD)?
Growing Degree Days measure the total warmth your plants receive during the growing season. Think of it as a "heat bank" — every day above 50°F deposits warmth that helps your plants grow.
Each plant needs a certain amount of accumulated heat to mature. If your county provides more GDD than the plant needs, it's a great fit. If it's close, you may want to choose faster-maturing varieties or start seeds indoors to get a head start.
Lemon Balm Planting Timeline — Nome Census Area, AK
Lemon Balm Planting Calendar
| Activity | When | Date Range |
|---|---|---|
| Transplant Outdoors | June 10 | Jun 10 – Jun 24 |
| Harvest | August 12 | Aug 12 – Sep 30 |
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 | — |
| November | — |
| December | — |
Growing Conditions
☀️ Sun
Partial Shade (3-6 hours)
💧 Water
0.5"/week · Natural rainfall sufficient
📅 Days to Maturity
60–70 days
🧪 Soil pH
Needs 5.5–7.5 · Your soil: acceptable
🗺️ USDA Zone
Zone 3b
📆 Growing Season
91 days in Nome Census Area
Growing Tips for Lemon Balm in Nome Census Area
Direct sow Lemon Balm outdoors after June 03 in Nome Census Area when soil has warmed and frost danger has passed.
General growing tips
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
Check more plant combinations with our Companion Planting Checker →
Lemon Balm in Other Locations
Frequently Asked Questions
When should I plant Lemon Balm in Nome Census Area, AK?
Nome Census Area is in Zone 3b with an average last frost of June 3. Plan your Lemon Balm planting based on this frost date — see the calendar above for exact timing.
What planting zone is Nome Census Area, AK?
Nome Census Area, Alaska is in USDA Hardiness Zone 3b. The average last spring frost is June 3 and first fall frost is September 2.
When should I plant Lemon Balm in Nome Census Area, AK?
In Nome Census Area, AK, plant Lemon Balm after the last frost (around June 3) and before the first frost (around September 2). Best results when soil holds above 50°F.
What growing zone is Nome Census Area, AK for Lemon Balm?
Nome Census Area sits in USDA Zone 3b. Lemon Balm grows reliably in zones 3a through 9b, so it's a good fit here.
Can Lemon Balm grow in Nome Census Area's climate?
Yes — Lemon Balm grows well in Nome Census Area's temperate climate. Nome Census Area averages a 91-day frost-free season, with last frost around June 3 and first frost around September 2.
Your Nome Census Area Garden Planner — Free
A 22-page printable planner built for Nome Census Area (Zone 3b). Planting dates, a month-by-month schedule, harvest log, seed inventory, and succession charts — all dialed in for your exact growing season.