When to plant Lemon Balm in Clay County, IL
Clay County's short 186-day growing season means one Lemon Balm planting between April 21 and May 5. No fall crop in Zone 6b.
When to Plant Lemon Balm in Clay County, IL
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.
Clay County, Illinois is in USDA Zone 6b. The average last spring frost is April 14 and the first fall frost is October 17, giving you a growing season of approximately 186 days.
At an elevation of 1,105 feet, Clay County receives approximately 34.9 inches of rainfall annually with predominantly silt loam soil. Summer highs average 85°F, providing good warmth for Lemon Balm during the growing season.
Clay County Soil Profile
Soil Type
Silt Loam
Soil pH
6.0-7.0
Drainage
Well Drained
Lemon Balm Planting Timeline — Clay County, IL
Lemon Balm Planting Calendar
| Activity | When | Date Range |
|---|---|---|
| Transplant Outdoors | April 21 | Apr 21 – May 5 |
| Harvest | June 23 | Jun 23 – Aug 11 |
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
Needs 5.5–7.5 · Your soil: N/A
🗺️ USDA Zone
Zone 6b
📆 Growing Season
186 days in Clay County
Growing Tips for Clay 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
Check more plant combinations with our Companion Planting Checker →
Lemon Balm in Other Locations
Frequently Asked Questions
When should I plant Lemon Balm in Clay County, IL?
Clay County is in Zone 6b with an average last frost of April 14. Plan your Lemon Balm planting based on this frost date — see the calendar above for exact timing.
What planting zone is Clay County, IL?
Clay County, Illinois is in USDA Hardiness Zone 6b. The average last spring frost is April 14 and first fall frost is October 17.
When should I plant Lemon Balm in Clay County, IL?
In Clay County, IL, plant Lemon Balm after the last frost (around April 14) and before the first frost (around October 17). Best results when soil holds above 50°F.
What growing zone is Clay County, IL for Lemon Balm?
Clay County sits in USDA Zone 6b. Lemon Balm grows reliably in zones 3a through 9b, so it's a good fit here.
Can Lemon Balm grow in Clay County's climate?
Yes — Lemon Balm grows well in Clay County's temperate climate. Clay County averages a 186-day frost-free season, with last frost around April 14 and first frost around October 17.
Your Clay County Garden Planner — Free
A 22-page printable planner built for Clay County (Zone 6b). Planting dates, a month-by-month schedule, harvest log, seed inventory, and succession charts — all dialed in for your exact growing season.