When to plant Lemon Balm in Clay County, MN
Plant Lemon Balm in Clay County during the brief May 18–June 1 window. With 142 frost-free days, fall plantings can't mature before September 30.
When to Plant Lemon Balm in Clay County, MN
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, Minnesota is in USDA Zone 4a. The average last spring frost is May 11 and the first fall frost is September 30, giving you a growing season of approximately 142 days.
At an elevation of 1,220 feet, Clay County receives approximately 35.3 inches of rainfall annually with predominantly silt loam soil. Summer highs average 80°F, so choose short-season varieties of Lemon Balm to ensure they mature before fall.
Clay County Soil Profile
Soil Type
Silt Loam
Soil pH
6.0-7.0
Drainage
Well Drained
Lemon Balm Planting Timeline — Clay County, MN
Lemon Balm Planting Calendar
| Activity | When | Date Range |
|---|---|---|
| Transplant Outdoors | May 18 | May 18 – Jun 1 |
| Harvest | July 20 | Jul 20 – Sep 7 |
Plant 0.5" deep · 8" apart · Rows 12" apart
Month-by-Month Timeline
| Month | Activities |
|---|---|
| January | — |
| February | — |
| March | — |
| April | — |
| May | Transplant Outdoors |
| June | Transplant Outdoors |
| July | Harvest |
| August | Harvest |
| September | Harvest |
| 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 4a
📆 Growing Season
142 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, MN?
Clay County is in Zone 4a with an average last frost of May 11. Plan your Lemon Balm planting based on this frost date — see the calendar above for exact timing.
What planting zone is Clay County, MN?
Clay County, Minnesota is in USDA Hardiness Zone 4a. The average last spring frost is May 11 and first fall frost is September 30.
When should I plant Lemon Balm in Clay County, MN?
In Clay County, MN, plant Lemon Balm after the last frost (around May 11) and before the first frost (around September 30). Best results when soil holds above 50°F.
What growing zone is Clay County, MN for Lemon Balm?
Clay County sits in USDA Zone 4a. 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 142-day frost-free season, with last frost around May 11 and first frost around September 30.
Your Clay County Garden Planner — Free
A 22-page printable planner built for Clay County (Zone 4a). Planting dates, a month-by-month schedule, harvest log, seed inventory, and succession charts — all dialed in for your exact growing season.