About Lemon Balm
Lemon Balm Introduction
Lemon Balm (Melissa officinalis) is a perennial herb from the mint family, native to southern Europe and the Mediterranean region. This aromatic plant is known for its lemony scent and flavor, which has made it a popular culinary and medicinal herb for centuries.
Lemon Balm typically grows to a height of 2-5 feet (70-150 cm) and spreads about 2-3 feet (60-90 cm) wide. It features oval-shaped, serrated leaves that are light green in color and grow in opposite pairs along square stems, characteristic of the mint family. When crushed or brushed against, the leaves release a strong, pleasant lemon aroma.
The plant produces small, inconspicuous white or pale pink flowers in late spring to early summer that are attractive to bees and other pollinators. In fact, the genus name ‘Melissa’ is derived from the Greek word for ‘honeybee’, reflecting the plant’s ability to attract these beneficial insects. Lemon Balm is known for its easy cultivation and can sometimes spread aggressively, similar to other mint family members.
Lemon Balm Care & Growing Guide
Caring for Lemon Balm is relatively straightforward, making it an excellent choice for both novice and experienced gardeners. This hardy perennial thrives in a variety of conditions and requires minimal maintenance once established.
When planting Lemon Balm, choose a location that receives full sun to partial shade. While it prefers well-drained, fertile soil, it can adapt to various soil types. Regular watering is important, especially during dry hot weather, but be careful not to overwater, as this can lead to root rot. Mulching can help retain moisture.
To maintain the plant’s shape and promote bushier growth, regular pruning is recommended. Pinch off the tips of the stems or harvest leaves frequently to encourage branching. If the plant becomes too large, it can be divided in spring or fall. Fertilization is generally not necessary for Lemon Balm, as over-fertilizing can reduce the concentration of essential oils that give the plant its characteristic aroma and flavor.
Soil
Lemon Balm thrives in well-drained, fertile soil with a pH range of 6.0 to 7.0, slightly acidic to neutral. The ideal soil composition is rich in organic matter, yet well draining, which provides good drainage while retaining adequate moisture. Adding compost or worm castings can improve soil structure and fertility.
While Lemon Balm is adaptable to various soil types, the plant prefers soil that doesn’t become waterlogged. Good drainage is crucial to prevent root rot and other fungal diseases. If your soil is heavy, add perlite or pumice to improve drainage.
The herb benefits from soil rich in nitrogen, which promotes lush leaf growth. However, excessive nitrogen can reduce the concentration of essential oils, affecting the plant’s aroma and flavor. A well-balanced, organic fertilizer can be beneficial.
Soil problems to watch for include:
1. Poor drainage: Can lead to root rot and fungal diseases.
2. Compaction: Restricts root growth and water penetration.
3. Inappropriate pH: Can affect nutrient availability.
4. Salt build-up: Can occur with over-fertilization, affecting plant health.
5. Nutrient deficiencies: May manifest as yellowing leaves or stunted growth.
6. Pot boundness: Can occur in container-grown plants, limiting growth and nutrient uptake.
Fertilizer
Lemon Balm is not a heavy feeder and often thrives without additional fertilization when grown in rich, organic soil. However, a light application of well-balanced, organic fertilizer in spring can promote healthy growth.
Recommended fertilizer mixture: Use a well-balanced, all-purpose organic fertilizer with an NPK ratio of 5-5-5 or 10-10-10. Supplementing with compost tea, seaweed/sea kelp extract, or worm castings will give the plant additional beneficial micronutrients.
Fertilizing schedule:
1. Apply organic fertilizer in early spring as new growth emerges
2. If growth seems slow and leaves aren’t a deep green, apply fertilizer again midsummer at half strength
3. Don’t fertilize fall through winter
Signs of over-fertilization include excessive, floppy growth, reduced aroma, and potential nutrient burn (brown leaf edges). Under-fertilization may result in pale leaves, slow growth, or smaller than normal leaves.
Lemon Balm particularly benefits from nitrogen for leaf production, but excessive nitrogen can reduce essential oil concentration. If using organic methods, a top dressing of compost in spring can often provide all necessary nutrients.
Common nutrient deficiencies in Lemon Balm include:
1. Nitrogen deficiency: yellowing of older leaves
2. Iron deficiency: yellowing between leaf veins (chlorosis)
3. Magnesium deficiency: yellowing of leaf margins and between veins
If these symptoms appear, consider using a specific nutrient supplement or adjusting soil pH to improve nutrient availability.
Watering
Lemon Balm prefers consistently moist soil but is relatively drought-tolerant once established. Water deeply when the top inch of soil feels dry to the touch and the moisture meter reads 4, almost 3. In general, this translates to watering once or twice a week, depending on climate and soil conditions.
Lemon Balm is not particularly fussy about water quality and can tolerate most tap water. However, if your tap water is very hard or chlorinated, using rainwater or filtered water can be beneficial.
Signs of underwatering include wilting, drooping leaves, and dry, crispy leaf edges. Overwatering symptoms include yellowing leaves, soft or mushy stems near the soil line, and a general decline in plant health.
Watering needs change seasonally, even indoors. During active growth in spring and summer, more frequent watering is necessary. In fall and winter, as growth slows, reduce watering frequency to prevent waterlogging.
Always ensure containers have adequate drainage holes.
Lighting
Lemon Balm thrives in full sun to partial shade conditions. It prefers at least 4-6 hours of direct sunlight daily for optimal growth and essential oil production. However, in hotter climates, some afternoon shade can be beneficial to prevent leaf scorching.
Signs of insufficient light include elongated, spindly growth (etiolation), pale leaves, and reduced aroma. In these cases, consider moving the plant to a sunnier location or supplementing with full-spectrum grow lights.
Excessive light exposure, particularly in hot climates, may cause leaf burn, wilting, or bleaching. If this occurs, move the plant further away from the window.
If natural light conditions are suboptimal, Lemon Balm can be grown under artificial lights. Full-spectrum LED grow lights can be effective for indoor cultivation, positioned about 6-12 inches above the plant and providing 12-16 hours of light daily.
Temperature
Lemon Balm thrives in moderate temperatures, with an ideal range of 59Β°F to 77Β°F (15Β°C to 25Β°C ).
While tolerant of heat, extreme temperatures above 86Β°F (30Β°C ) can stress the plant, causing wilting and reduced essential oil production. In hot climates, provide afternoon shade and increase watering frequency.
Lemon Balm can tolerate some temperature fluctuations but prefers consistency. Sudden changes can cause leaf drop or stunted growth. To protect from extreme temperatures:
1. Locate the plant in the coolest area of your home
2. Grow the herb several feet from hot, sunny windows
3. Keep the plant away from drafts and heat sources
Humidity
Lemon Balm is adaptable to a range of humidity levels but generally prefers moderate humidity. It can tolerate both dry and humid conditions, making it suitable for various climates. Ideal humidity levels range from 40% to 60%.
In low humidity environments, Lemon Balm may show signs of stress such as curling or browning leaf edges. To increase humidity:
1. Mist the leaves regularly with water
2. Use a pebble tray filled with water placed near the plant
3. Group plants together to create a humid microclimate
4. Use a humidifier in indoor settings
In high humidity conditions, ensure good air circulation to prevent fungal diseases. If humidity is excessively high, you may need to space plants further apart or use a dehumidifier indoors.
For this herb species, misting is generally effective and easy to implement. Pebble trays can also work well, especially for container plants. While humidifiers are highly effective, they may not be necessary unless growing Lemon Balm indoors in a very dry environment.
Propagation
Lemon Balm can be propagated through several methods, with stem cuttings and division being the most common and successful. Here’s a detailed guide:
1. Stem Cuttings:
a) Take 4-6 inch cuttings from non-flowering stems in late spring or early summer
b) Remove lower leaves, leaving 2-3 pairs at the top
c) Dip the cut end in rooting hormone (optional)
d) Plant in a pot with moist, well-draining potting mix
e) Cover with a clear plastic bag or humidity dome to maintain humidity
f) Place in bright, indirect light
g) Roots should form in 2-3 weeks
2. Division:
a) In spring or fall, dig up an established plant
b) Gently separate the root ball into 2-3 sections, each with roots and shoots
c) Replant divisions immediately at the same depth as the original plant
d) Water well and keep soil moist until new growth appears
3. Seed Propagation:
a) Sow seeds indoors in aΒ seed starting mix and barely cover seeds with soil
b) Keep soil moist and warm (around 70Β°F/21Β°C)
c) Seeds should germinate in 7-14 days
d) Transplant seedlings when they are 2 inches high and have at least 2 true leaves
Stem cuttings and division have higher success rates and produce plants identical to the parent. Seed propagation is less reliable and may result in slight variations.
The best time to propagate is in spring or early summer when the plant is in active growth. New plants from cuttings or divisions typically establish within 4-6 weeks, while seed-grown plants may take 8-10 weeks to reach a transplantable size.
Potting
Lemon Balm grows well in containers. Here are the potting requirements:
Pot Type: Use a container with adequate drainage holes. Terra cotta pots are ideal, as they allow soil to breathe, but any material works if drainage is good.
Pot Size: Start with a pot at least 8 inches deep and wide. As the plant grows, you may need to move to a larger container.
Soil Mix: Use a well-draining potting mix. A combination of regular potting soil, perlite or pumice, and compost in equal parts works well.
Repotting Frequency: Repot every 1-2 years or when the plant becomes pot-bound.
Signs that indicate repotting is needed:
1. Roots growing out of drainage holes
2. Water runs straight through the pot without being absorbed
3. Plant wilts despite regular watering
4. Stunted growth
Repotting Process:
1. Water the plant thoroughly a day before repotting
2. Gently remove the plant from its current pot
3. Inspect roots and trim any that are dead or rotting
4. If pot-bound, gently loosen the root ball
5. Place in the new pot with fresh potting mix
6. Water well and place in a shaded area for a few days to recover
Root pruning is generally not necessary for Lemon Balm unless it’s severely pot-bound. If needed, trim no more than 25% of the roots.
To minimize transplant stress:
1. Repot on a cool day if possible
2. Water thoroughly after repotting
3. Provide shade for a few days
4. Hold off on fertilizing for 2-4 weeks after repotting
Pruning
Pruning Lemon Balm
Best Time for Pruning
Prune Lemon Balm throughout the growing season, with major pruning in late spring or early summer.
Frequency
Regular light pruning can be done weekly during active growth. Perform a more substantial pruning 1-2 times from spring through early fall.
Purpose
Pruning encourages bushier growth, prevents flowering (which can reduce leaf flavor), and helps maintain the plant’s shape.
Tools Needed
– Clean, sharp scissors or pruning shears
– Gloves (optional)
Step-by-Step Guide
1. Sanitize your pruning tools with 70% or 91% isopropyl (rubbing) alcohol or a diluted bleach solution (9 parts water to 1 part bleach).
2. Identify stems that are long, leggy, or extending beyond the desired shape of the plant.
3. Cut these stems back by up to 2/3 of their length, making cuts just above a leaf node.
4. Remove any yellowing, damaged, or diseased leaves.
5. Pinch off any flower buds if you want to focus on leaf production.
Aftercare
– Water the plant thoroughly after pruning.
– Apply a light layer of compost or fertilize to encourage new growth.
Special Considerations
– Avoid pruning in late fall or winter in colder regions, as this can make the plant more susceptible to cold damage.
– If harvesting for culinary use, prune in the morning, as that is when the herb’s essential oils are at their peak.
Blooming
Lemon Balm typically blooms from late spring to early summer, with the flowering period lasting several weeks. The small, inconspicuous flowers are usually white or pale pink and grow in clusters at the leaf axils. Optimal conditions for blooming include full sun to partial shade and well-drained soil. Regular pruning can extend the blooming period and promote more flower production. The flowers are particularly attractive to bees and other pollinators.
Pests and Diseases
Pests
Common issues
Spider Mites
Whiteflies
Symptoms
Spider Mites: Fine webbing between leaves, yellowing leaves
Whiteflies: Tiny white, winged insects that fly when disturbed, sticky residue on leaves, yellowing leaves
Treatment
Spray plants with a strong stream of water to dislodge pests
Apply insecticidal soap or neem oil
Introduce beneficial insects like greenhouse ladybugs or lacewings
Diseases
Common issues
Root Rot
Leaf Spot
Symptoms
Root Rot: Wilting, despite moist soil
Leaf Spot: Brown or black spots on leaves
Treatment
Root Rot: Reduce watering and ensure good drainage; repot in fresh soil
Leaf Spot: Improve air circulation by pruning and spacing plants; remove and destroy infected plant parts
Special Features
Lemon Balm boasts several unique features that make it a valuable addition to any garden. Its most notable characteristic is its strong lemon scent, which is released when the leaves are crushed or brushed against. This fragrance not only makes it a pleasant sensory plant but also acts as a natural insect repellent, particularly effective against mosquitoes. The herb is also known for its culinary uses, with leaves that can be used fresh or dried in teas, salads, and various dishes. Additionally, Lemon Balm has a long history of medicinal use, particularly for its calming properties and potential benefits for digestive health.
Plant Benefits
Lemon Balm has been used for centuries in traditional medicine for its potential health benefits. It’s known for its calming and anxiety-reducing properties, often used to promote relaxation and improve sleep quality. The herb may also aid in digestive health, helping to relieve indigestion, bloating, and nausea. Some studies suggest it may have cognitive benefits, potentially improving mood and mental performance. Lemon Balm has antiviral properties, particularly against herpes simplex virus, and may help in treating cold sores. Its antioxidant content contributes to its potential anti-inflammatory effects. In aromatherapy, the scent of Lemon Balm is used to reduce stress and promote a sense of well-being.
Additional Information
Lemon Balm is a member of the mint family and shares the invasive tendencies of its relatives when grown outdoors, but this is not an issue in the indoor garden. The plant has a long history of use in traditional medicine and was highly valued in ancient Greek and Roman cultures. Its Latin name, Melissa, means ‘honeybee’, reflecting its attraction to bees and other pollinators. In medieval times, Lemon Balm was often included in monastic gardens for its medicinal properties and pleasant aroma.
Life Cycle
Lemon Balm is a herbaceous perennial that completes its life cycle over multiple years. In spring, new growth emerges from the roots or from seeds that have overwintered. The plant grows rapidly during spring and summer, producing lush foliage. Flowering typically occurs in late spring to early summer, with small, inconspicuous white or pale pink flowers appearing in clusters at the leaf axils. After flowering, the plant continues to grow and may produce a second flush of growth in late summer. In autumn, growth slows as the plant prepares for winter dormancy. In colder regions, the above-ground parts may die back completely, with the plant resprouting from the roots in spring. In milder climates, Lemon Balm may retain some of its leaves year-round. The plant requires full sun to partial shade and well-draining soil for optimal growth. Regular pruning can help maintain its shape and promote bushier growth throughout its life cycle.
Are Lemon Balm Poisonous, Toxic
Lemon Balm is generally considered non-toxic to humans, cats, and dogs. However, as with any plant, consumption of large quantities may cause mild gastrointestinal upset in some individuals. There are no specific toxic parts of the plant, and it is widely used in herbal teas and culinary applications. While severe toxicity is not a concern, it’s always best to supervise children and pets around plants and prevent excessive consumption. If any unusual symptoms occur after ingestion, consult a healthcare professional or veterinarian as appropriate.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do you grow lemon balm?
Lemon balm is easy to grow. Plant it in well-draining soil in full sun to partial shade. Water regularly, especially during dry spells. Prune regularly to encourage bushy growth and prevent it from spreading too aggressively.
What are the benefits of lemon balm?
Lemon balm has several potential benefits. The herb is known for its calming properties, which may help reduce stress and anxiety. It’s also used to aid digestion, improve sleep quality, and boost cognitive function. The herb has antiviral properties and may help in treating cold sores.
Is lemon balm invasive?
Yes, lemon balm can be invasive if not controlled. It spreads through both self-seeding and underground runners. To prevent it from taking over your garden, grow it in containers or in areas where its spread can be limited. This is not a concern in the indoor garden.
How do you harvest lemon balm?
Harvest lemon balm leaves as needed throughout the growing season. For the best flavor, harvest in the morning when the plant’s essential oils are at their height. Cut stems close to a leaf intersection, leaving about 2/3 of the plant for regrowth.
Can you eat lemon balm raw?
Yes, lemon balm leaves can be eaten raw. They have a mild lemon flavor and are often used fresh in salads, as a garnish, or to flavor drinks. The leaves can also be used to make tea or added to cooked dishes.
Does lemon balm come back every year?
Yes, lemon balm is a perennial herb that comes back year after year in most climates. In colder regions, it may die back to the ground in winter but will regrow from the roots in spring.
How long does lemon balm take to grow?
Lemon balm grows quickly. When grown from seed, it typically takes about 70-90 days to reach maturity. If grown from cuttings or divisions, it establishes more quickly and can be harvested within a few weeks.
Does lemon balm repel mosquitoes?
Yes, lemon balm has mosquito-repelling properties. The strong lemon scent of the crushed leaves can help deter mosquitoes. Some people rub the leaves on their skin as a natural insect repellent.
Is lemon balm good for sleep?
Lemon balm is often used to promote better sleep. Its calming properties may help reduce anxiety and promote relaxation, which can lead to improved sleep quality. Many people drink lemon balm tea before bedtime for this reason.
Can lemon balm be grown indoors?
Yes, lemon balm can be grown indoors. It needs a sunny window or full-spectrum grow lights, well-draining soil, and regular watering. Indoor plants may not grow as large as outdoor plants, but they can still provide fresh leaves year-round.
Can I grow Lemon Balm indoors
Difficulty
Easy
Size
Medium
Light
Medium
Water
Medium
Flowering
Yes
Pet Safe
Yes
Air Purifier
Low
Melissa officinalis botanical details
Common Name
Lemon Balm
Other Common Names
Bee Balm, Sweet Balm, Honey Plant, Melissa
Botanical Name
Melissa officinalis
Native Area
Southern Europe, Mediterranean region, Western Asia
Family Name
Lamiaceae
Plant Type
Perennial herb
Genus
Melissa
Kingdom
Plantae
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Is there anything else you can tell me?
Why did the Lemon Balm go to therapy? It had too many issues to work out!