Lemon Balm Growing Guide

Melissa officinalis

Crop Rotation Group

Miscellaneous ●

Soil

Rich well-drained soil.

Position

Any sunny spot.

Frost tolerant

A cold-hardy perennial, lemon balm can survive temperatures to -30C (-20F).

Feeding

Not generally required.

Spacing

Single Plants: 60cm (1' 11") each way (minimum)
Rows: 60cm (1' 11") with 60cm (1' 11") row gap (minimum)

Sow and Plant

Start with a purchased plant, or obtain a rooted piece from a friend or neighbour who has an established clump. Lemon balm can be transplanted from early spring to early summer. You also can start seeds in late winter, and set out the seedlings in spring. Lemon balm grows into a rounded mound.
Our Garden Planner can produce a personalised calendar of when to sow, plant and harvest for your area.

Notes

Lemon balm is very easy to grow. Locate it where leaves can be conveniently picked, crushed and sniffed.

Harvesting

Gather sprigs as needed in the kitchen. Gather stems for drying or steeping into tinctures in early summer, just before the plants bloom.

Planting and Harvesting Calendar

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Pests which Affect Lemon Balm

Aphids (General)

Slug

Snail