Growing Lemon Balm, also Sweet balm,

Melissa Officinalis : Lamiaceae / the mint family

Jan F M A M J J A S O N Dec
      S                
        T              
        P              

(Best months for growing Lemon Balm in USA - Zone 5a regions)

  • S = Plant undercover in seed trays
  • T = Plant out (transplant) seedlings
  • P = Sow seed
  • Easy to grow. Sow in garden. Sow seed at a depth approximately three times the diameter of the seed. Best planted at soil temperatures between 50°F and 77°F. (Show °C/cm)
  • Space plants: 10 inches apart
  • Harvest in 8-10 weeks. Cut back tall stems to prevent flowering.
  • Compatible with (can grow beside): Good to attract bees

Your comments and tips

14 Jun 17, douglas (South Africa - Dry summer sub-tropical climate)
where in cape town south africa can i purchase lemon balm plants
14 Mar 18, Pat (New Zealand - temperate climate)
I live in Tauranga and was wondering if I can grow lemon balm seeds now or do I have to wait until summer. Also I have planted mint seeds in a pot and was wondering if they will come up or not Pat
09 Apr 21, Vanessa (USA - Zone 6b climate)
My lemon balm did very well last year, but i don't see any sign of it coming back. I dont believe o saw it flower though last year. Is it still to early? I live on long island, ny.
12 Apr 21, Anonymous (USA - Zone 6b climate)
Maybe a little early as it says plant APRIL/MAY.
13 Aug 24, Nathan Schwartz (Australia - cool/mountain climate)
I don’t actually mind that it's a bit invasive. I guess it depends on how your garden works for you, but I love its scent, especially in the middle of a really warm summer when it just fills the garden with fragrance, and it’s super easy to pull up if it does self seed. If you’re ever worried about that sort of maintenance, it’s honestly not a problem, and it’s such a great plant for bees. There’s tons more info on how to grow and propagate it, as well as preventing its spread if you’re worried here: https://aussiegreenthumb.com/how-to-grow-lemon-balm/
Showing 11 - 15 of 15 comments

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