How to Grow Great Lemon Balm

Ancient Greek physicians used lemon balm as a remedy for several things. It was used on scorpion and dog bites. To keep a swarm of bees to stay in their hive, a beekeepers would rum lemon balm inside the hive. Today, we use lemon balm as an herb for cooking and a natural remedy, as well. It is easy to grow and can be grown in containers, if you do not have room for a big herb garden. Here are some tips to help you grow lemon balm in your home garden.

If you love the smell of lemon, this herb will be one of your favorites. All you need to is brush the leaves and your fingers will smell of lemons with a hint of mint. Lemon balm is hardy in temperature zones 5 to 9. It will produce tiny white or light blue flowers May or June. These flowers are a favorite of bees. They will bloom throughout the summer. The plant will grow up to 2 feet high.

Lemon balm is not a picky plant. It will grow in average soil. It can grow in full sun or partial shade. The seeds should be sown directly into the soil. Place them about 12 inches apart. They should be planted in early spring or fall. It is quite possible the plant will become overgrown. When this happens, dig it up and divide the roots. The resulting divisions can be replanted in either spring or fall. Be sure to keep an eye on your lemon balm seedlings. It can become a bit intrusive if left unattended.

You can begin harvesting lemon balm when the plant has become established. If you plant to dry them, harvest the leaves just before the plant begins to bloom. The stems should be tied in small bundles. Then, hang them where there is good airflow and in a spot out of the direct sunlight.

The leaves of the lemon balm plant make a refreshing hot tea. If you are making a cool summer punch or iced tea, add a few leaves of lemon balm to give it a bit of flavor. Lemon balm is also delicious in green salads, marinated vegetables, fruit salads, and poultry stuffing. It also makes a delicious to asparagus, beans, broccoli, corn, freshly ground black pepper, olives, lamb, and shellfish.

Growing this herb will add a lovely scent to your herb garden. It is also a delicious addition to many beverages. Hopefully, these tips will help you grow all the lemon balm you and your family can enjoy.