When to plant Lemon Balm in Barnstable County, MA
Plant Lemon Balm in Barnstable County, between April 25 and May 9 — the only viable window. Zone 7a's short season (189 frost-free days) rules out a fall crop.
When to Plant Lemon Balm in Barnstable County, MA
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.
Barnstable County, Massachusetts is in USDA Zone 7a. The average last spring frost is April 18 and the first fall frost is October 24, giving you a growing season of approximately 189 days.
At an elevation of 518 feet, Barnstable County receives approximately 45.5 inches of rainfall annually with predominantly silt loam soil. Summer highs average 91°F, providing good warmth for Lemon Balm during the growing season.
Barnstable County Soil Profile
Soil Type
Silt Loam
Soil pH
6.0-7.0
Drainage
Well Drained
Lemon Balm Planting Timeline — Barnstable County, MA
Lemon Balm Planting Calendar
| Activity | When | Date Range |
|---|---|---|
| Transplant Outdoors | April 25 | Apr 25 – May 9 |
| Harvest | June 27 | Jun 27 – Aug 15 |
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 7a
📆 Growing Season
189 days in Barnstable County
Growing Tips for Barnstable 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 Barnstable County, MA?
Barnstable County is in Zone 7a with an average last frost of April 18. Plan your Lemon Balm planting based on this frost date — see the calendar above for exact timing.
What planting zone is Barnstable County, MA?
Barnstable County, Massachusetts is in USDA Hardiness Zone 7a. The average last spring frost is April 18 and first fall frost is October 24.
When should I plant Lemon Balm in Barnstable County, MA?
In Barnstable County, MA, plant Lemon Balm after the last frost (around April 18) and before the first frost (around October 24). Best results when soil holds above 50°F.
What growing zone is Barnstable County, MA for Lemon Balm?
Barnstable County sits in USDA Zone 7a. Lemon Balm grows reliably in zones 3a through 9b, so it's a good fit here.
Can Lemon Balm grow in Barnstable County's climate?
Yes — Lemon Balm grows well in Barnstable County's temperate climate. Barnstable County averages a 189-day frost-free season, with last frost around April 18 and first frost around October 24.
Your Barnstable County Garden Planner — Free
A 22-page printable planner built for Barnstable County (Zone 7a). Planting dates, a month-by-month schedule, harvest log, seed inventory, and succession charts — all dialed in for your exact growing season.