How to Grow Lemon Balm (Melissa officinalis)

Grow lemon balm in full sun in fertile, well-drained soil. It can be started from seed sown indoors about 4-6 weeks before last frost, although seeds may be slow to germinate if not stratified. Transplanting seedlings into the garden when they are 2-3″ tall. Space the plants 16-18″ apart.

How do you grow Melissa officinalis?
How do you grow lemon balm?
Is Lemon balm easy to grow from seed?
Is Lemon balm the same as Melissa?
Does lemon balm come back every year?
Is lemon grass a perennial?
What does lemon balm grow well with?
Does lemon balm keep mosquitoes away?
How long does lemon balm take to grow?
Does lemon balm plant spread?
Does lemon balm attract bees?
Will Lemon balm grow in shade?

How do you grow Melissa officinalis?

Like mint, it's a particularly rampant grower, so is best confined to a raised bed or container where it can't spread too much. For best results, grow Melissa officinalis in moist, well-drained soil in full sun or partial shade. Cut back after flowering to promote fresh growth and prevent seeds from forming.

How do you grow lemon balm?

Plant lemon balm during the warm weather of late spring, once all chances of frost have passed.
Space lemon balm 20 to 24 inches apart in an area with partial shade and fertile, well-drained soil with a pH of 6.5 to 7.0.

Is Lemon balm easy to grow from seed?

Like most mint family members, lemon balm is easily started from seed. For outdoor culture, seed can be sown either in mid-spring after all danger of frost has passed or in early fall to late winter.

Is Lemon balm the same as Melissa?

Lemon balm (Melissa officinalis) is a lemon-scented herb that comes from the same family as mint. The herb is native to Europe, North Africa, and West Asia, but it's grown around the world. Lemon balm has traditionally been used to improve mood and cognitive function, but the potential benefits don't stop there.

Does lemon balm come back every year?

Lemon balm is a perennial herb that grows best in cool weather.

Is lemon grass a perennial?

Lemon grass is an easy-going tropical plant that is quite happy in full sun and average garden soil. It is a tender perennial, hardy only in Zones 9-10.

What does lemon balm grow well with?

Most herbs, fruits and vegetables make great lemon balm companions, including the following:

Winter and summer squash.
Melons.
Tomatoes.
All members of the cabbage family (kale, broccoli, Brussels sprouts, cauliflower, etc.)
Apples.
Kiwi.
Onions.
Fennel.

Does lemon balm keep mosquitoes away?

Lemon Balm contains high levels of a compound called citronellal, which gives it its lemony aroma and flavor that bugs find so unpleasant. ... The lemon scent, which repels the bugs, is powerful. It rubs off very well onto the skin. Lemon balm repels mosquitoes and gnats.

How long does lemon balm take to grow?

Quick Reference Growing Guide

Season:	Spring-fall	Average
Exposure:	Full sun to partial shade	6.0-7.5
Time to Maturity:	70 days	Well-draining
Spacing:	1-2 feet	Dill, basil, squash
Planting Depth:	Seeds on surface, transplants to depth of pot	Lamiaceae

Does lemon balm plant spread?

Lemon balm can be grown in full sun to partial shade in soils that are moist but well drained. It can be propagated by seeds, division or stem cuttings. ... While mint can spread rapidly by underground stems, lemon balm spreads by setting lots of seed and can, if allowed to go unchecked start to overtake the garden.

Does lemon balm attract bees?

Lemon balm is a great plant to use as a border to a garden because not only will it emit its fragrant lemony odor when brushed, but it will attract bees into the garden.

Will Lemon balm grow in shade?

Lemon balm (Melissa officinalis), a perennial herb hardy to USDA Zone 3, tolerates partial shade and grows well in poor soil as long as the drainage is good. It self-sows easily. Lemon balm may be used in teas, salads and fish dishes or with fruit.