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Lemon Balm

Melissa officinalis

Lemon Balm (Melissa officinalis) is a fragrant perennial herb with bright green, lemon-scented leaves. Known for its calming properties, this versatile herb is often used in teas, salads, and desserts. It thrives in full sun to partial shade and well-drained soil, making it suitable for garden beds, containers, or herb gardens. Blooming in mid to late summer with small white flowers, Lemon Balm also attracts pollinators, adding both beauty and utility to any garden space.

$3.45

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Plant Data
Growing Instructions
Plant Data
Zones:  4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9
Growth Cycle:  Perennial
Light:  Full Sun, Full Sun to Partial Shade
Water Needs:  Low to Moderate, Moderate, Moderate to High, High
Color: 
Soil:  Tolerant of most soils, Chalky, Saline, Peaty, Sandy, Loam, Silty, Clay
Growth Rate:  Fast, Fast to Moderate
Maturity - (Vegetables Only): 
Edible:  Yes, with caution.
Height:  Up to 2 Feet, Up to 3 Feet, Up to 4 Feet, Up to 5 Feet
Evergreen:  No
Special Features:  Attracts Pollinators, Flowering, Fragrant, Medicinal, Drought Tolerant, Ornamental, Dried Flowers,Deer Resistant,Cold Hardy,Self Seeding, Container Growing
Warnings:  Can be Invasive
Growing Instructions
How to Germinate Lemon Balm

How to Germinate Lemon Balm (Melissa officinalis)

  • Sow Lemon Balm seeds indoors 6-8 weeks before the last expected frost date or directly outdoors in spring after the danger of frost has passed.
  • Scatter seeds on the soil surface and press them down lightly, as they need light to germinate. Do not cover them with soil.
  • Use well-draining soil and maintain a temperature of 65-70°F (18-21°C) for optimal germination, which typically takes 10-14 days.
  • Water the soil lightly to keep it consistently moist but not waterlogged during the germination period.
  • Once seedlings have developed 2-3 sets of true leaves, transplant them into the garden, spacing them 12-18 inches apart.
  • If sowing outdoors, thin the seedlings to the same spacing once they are a few inches tall.

Additional Tips

  • Lemon Balm prefers partial shade to full sun and well-draining soil enriched with organic matter.
  • Water regularly, especially during dry periods, to keep the soil evenly moist, but avoid overwatering.
  • Apply mulch around the plants to help retain soil moisture and control weeds.
  • Prune or pinch back the stems regularly to encourage bushier growth and prevent the plant from becoming leggy.
  • Harvest the leaves as needed, preferably in the morning, for the best flavor and aroma.
Lemon Balm

Lemon Balm

$3.45