Melissa officinalis Care Guide (lemon Balm plant)
Melissa officinalis, also known as lemon balm, is a popular herb that is often used for its soothing and calming properties. This herb is part of the mint family and is native to the Mediterranean region, but can now be found all over the world. Lemon balm is a hardy plant that is easy to care for, making it an excellent choice for both experienced and novice gardeners alike. In this care guide, we will provide you with all the information you need to successfully grow and care for your own lemon balm plants.
that the bees will by no means depart a backyard where lemon balm is growing, and it used to be a worthwhile herb in the days when honey was once the sole sweetener. It is believed to be desirable for soothing ache and relieving anxiety and used to be worn as an amulet by human beings who desired to be loved.
Appearance and Cultivation: Lemon balm is a perennial shrubby plant, whose leaves provide off a robust lemony scent. Its look is comparable to mint and, like mint, it is a dominating plant that wishes to be grown alone, in a pot of at least 12 cm (5 in) in diameter. It can be grown from seeds in spring, or propagated from cuttings taken in spring or autumn, and is a resilient plant that adapts with no trouble to window sill growing.
Melissa officinalis Care Guide (lemon Balm plant)
Harvesting and Use: Lemon balm is a subtle flavoured herb. The leaves can be picked generally at any time, which additionally improves the increase of the plant. Chopped up finely it offers a fine lemon flavour to salads, stuffings and puddings. It can be introduced to all fish dishes and is additionally scrumptious with lamb and chicken. The leaves make possibly the fantastic of all tisanes, and it is stated that you will stay to over a hundred if you drink lemon balm tea each and every day.
Melissa officinalis Care Guide (lemon Balm plant)
In terms of side effects, lemon balm is generally considered safe when consumed in moderate amounts. However, some people may experience mild side effects such as nausea, abdominal pain, and dizziness. It may also cause drowsiness, so it’s recommended to avoid driving or operating heavy machinery after consuming it.
As for fertilizer, lemon balm grows well in well-draining soil with a neutral pH level. Adding compost or a balanced fertilizer to the soil before planting can help promote growth and health.
temperatures
Lemon balm prefers a sunny or partly shaded location, and it can tolerate a range of temperatures. It grows best in temperatures between 60-75°F (15-24°C), but it can withstand temperatures as low as 20°F (-7°C) and as high as 90°F (32°C).
In terms of watering, lemon balm likes moist soil but does not like to be waterlogged. It’s recommended to water it deeply once a week or whenever the soil feels dry to the touch. Avoid overhead watering as it can cause fungal diseases.
FAQ
Lemon balm plant flowers?
Yes, lemon balm plants produce small white or yellowish flowers in the summer. The flowers are attractive to bees and other pollinators and have a pleasant, lemony scent.
Lemon balm plant invasive?
Lemon balm plants can be invasive, spreading easily through self-seeding and underground rhizomes. If left unchecked, they can quickly take over a garden bed. To control their growth, it’s best to plant lemon balm in containers or in a designated area of the garden.
Pruning lemon balm for winter?
In late fall, after the first frost, cut back the stems of the lemon balm plant to about 2-3 inches above the soil line. This will help to prevent winter damage and encourage new growth in the spring.
How big does lemon balm grow?
Lemon balm can grow up to 2-3 feet in height and can spread up to 2-3 feet in width, depending on growing conditions and how often it’s pruned.
How to grow lemon balm from seed?
To grow lemon balm from seed, sow the seeds indoors in early spring, 6-8 weeks before the last frost date in your area. Sow the seeds in a well-draining potting mix and keep the soil moist. Lemon balm seeds typically take 7-14 days to germinate. Once the seedlings have developed their second set of leaves, they can be transplanted outdoors.
Lemon balm growing zone?
Lemon balm is a hardy perennial herb that grows well in zones 4-9.
Lemon balm germination time?
Lemon balm seeds typically take 7-14 days to germinate when sown in a well-draining
potting mix and kept moist at a temperature of around 65-70°F (18-21°C).
