Edibles Grow Sheets

Lemon Balm

• Scientific Name

  Melissa officinalis
• General Information

  Lemon balm is a fragrant perennial herb that grows 2 to 3 feet tall and is loved by bees. To avoid aggressive spread, pinch-tip stems or grow in a container. Deer avoid lemon balm.

• When to Plant

  From seed: Sow seed in spring and early fall.

  Transplants: Plant seedlings in spring.

  Cuttings: Propagation by cuttings is possible. Roots well in water.

• Planting

  Plant 2 feet apart in full sun to part shade.  

• Soil Requirements

  Prefers average, loamy soil that drains well. 

• Water Requirements

  Keep plants evenly moist. Soil is too damp if it forms a clump.

• Fertilizing

  Amend soil with compost annually.

• Pollination

  Lemon balm is pollinated by bees and other flying insects.

• Harvesting

  Harvest before blooms open to control spread. Leaves can be used fresh or dried. Tie bundles of 5 to 7 sprigs and hang in a cool, dry place upside down so oils remain in leaves.

• Storage

  Once dry, strip leaves off stems and store leaves in glass jars to use until next year’s harvest.  

• Good Varieties for Marin

  N / A
• Helpful Tips

  Do not overwater. Provide some afternoon shade. Frequent harvesting keeps leaves fresh. To collect seed, allow flowers to bloom, cut stem, and place in a paper bag until dry. The tiny seeds will drop from flowers. 

• Common Problems

  Aggressive spreader.

• Pests- Diseases & More

  Not usually bothered by pests and diseases. If aphids, whiteflies, or mites appear, hose off. If brown spots appear on leaves, combat with proper spacing and practice crop rotation.