Plant of The Month
Lemon Balm (Melissa officinalis) is a perennial herb with fragrant lemon-scented leaves. Lemon balm is part of the Mint family and is known for having weed life growth and self-seeds easily. With hundreds of small white flowers, the lemon balm is a powerful bee attractant. It has toothed edges and slightly hairy leaves with a lemony scent.
Lemon balm-like many herbs has been traditionally used to aid in an array of health conditions. With calming and relaxing properties as well as anti-viral and anti-bacterial qualities, lemon balm is a great addition to a kitchen garden.
What parts of Lemon Balm are edible?
PLANT
Spring after the last frost. Can be grown all year round in many climates.
SOIL
Fertile, moist, well-drained soil. Will grow in most soil types.
LOCATION
Full sun – Dappled or shaded position.
CARE
Regular watering – is a thirsty plant.
FERTILISE
Easy to grow and doesn’t need much help.
PESTS
Snails, slaters, and aphids.
HARVEST
Harvest regularly to keep contained.
REPRODUCE
Grows easily from cuttings or save seeds after flowering.
Why Grow Lemon Balm?
There are many reasons to grow Lemon Balm and it is so easy to grow!
Here are some of the many reasons to grow Lemon Balm
- Easy to grow
- Fragrant lemon scent and flavour
- Grows well in containers
- Low maintenance
- Pollinator plant
- Relaxant
- Antiviral
- Aids in Cold sores
- Great for teas
- Salad dressings
- Cut and come again harvest
- Pest resistant
- Reduce stress and anxiety
When to Plant Lemon Balm
Lemon balm grows well most of the year. new plants should be planted after the last frost. If planting in summer keep well watered.
How to Grow Lemon Balm
- Choose a sunny spot with dappled or part shade in the heat of summer.
- Prepare the soil with rich compost
- Direct sow seeds or plant in seed trays first.
- 1 plant is plenty.
- Can benefit from protection during the heat of summer.
Care/ Maintenance
Lemon balm like Mint is a thirsty plant. Keep well watered and have a drip tray for pots. Cut back the plant after it has finished flowering to promote new growth.
Pests / Disease
Lemon Balm is pretty hardy and will thrive with minimal effort. Use natural pest management.
How/ When to Harvest
- Once the plant is well-established harvest sprigs as needed.
- Use clean, sharp kitchen scissors to cut your harvest, or just pick with your hands to prevent the spreading of diseases.
- Cut and come again crop that will regrow quickly. I often harvest and use in cold drinks or teas every other day.
Reproducing
Take cuttings and allow to root in a jar of water. Refresh the water every few days. Seeds can also be saved and will flower with white flowers on the stem. Once the seeds form and turn brown, collect them and dry them further. Keep in a dark, cool and dry environment.
Cooking and Using Lemon Balm
Lemon balm is best used fresh. Dried leaves lose their scent and flavour.
Lemon Balm pairs well with: Garlic, Citrus, Lettuce, Lavender, Cucumber, Radish, Fish, Fennel
Lemon Balm ideas:
- Salads
- Salad dressing
- Stirfry
- Soup
- Teas
- Iced drinks
- Iceblocks
Preserving the Harvest
Lemon Balm is best used fresh but can be infused to make the flavour last.
- Essential oil
- Infused vinegar
- Essences
Medicinal Uses:
- Cold Sores – Make a strong infused tea or oil and apply it to the affected area 3-5 times a day
- Insect Bites – Make a strong infused tea or oil and apply it to the affected area 3-5 times a day or rub crushed leaves on the spot
- Stress and anxiety – Brew a calming tea using fresh leaves
Lemon Balm Posts
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