Lemon balm self-propagates through its roots and seeds and can spread quite quickly in the garden. Prevent self-sowing by clipping flowers as they appear. Pull entire plants from the ground to reduce root spread.
Does lemon balm spread?
Lemon balm does not spread by underground runners like mint. It will increase in size, though, making a bigger clump in the garden each season and sprouting from seeds that develop from inconspicuous flowers.
How wide does lemon balm get?
Plant form and size: Lemon balm grows to 12 to 24 inches tall and wide; it grows in clumps of branched stems with loose terminal clusters of small white to creamy yellow flowers at the top.
How far apart do you plant lemon balm?
Planting and Spacing
Lemon balm grows from 2 to 3 feet high and should be spaced 18 to 24 inches apart. Lemon balm prefers full sunlight but will tolerate light shade. Plants grown with some shade tend to produce larger and more succulent leaves.
Will lemon balm grow back after cutting?
To keep plants vigorous, thin plants out in mid-summer by cutting out stems to open up the plant to better air circulation. Lemon balm can also be cut back to about one-half its height to encourage fresh, vigorous new growth. Watering after this heavy pruning helps the plant recover quicker.
Will lemon balm choke out other plants?
It chokes out other weeds very well. I have found one thing that seems to be even more aggressive in its spread than lemon balm and that is those wild orangeread more.
Will lemon balm come back every year?
If you want to introduce your children to growing herbs, lemon balm is a good choice because it grows so easily and usually comes back year after year. Lemon balm has heart-shaped leaves with serrated edges and looks like mint, but it gives off a lemony scent.
Does lemon balm keep flies away?
What makes lemon balm so effective as an insect repellent is its high levels of a compound called citronellal. So rather than using toxic chemical repellents, just place a lemon balm plant in your home to repel insects. Sage’s strong smell and oil both act in repelling mosquitoes and flies.
How fast does lemon balm grow?
Quick Reference Growing Guide
| Plant Type: | Herbaceous perennial | Water Needs: |
|---|---|---|
| Time to Maturity: | 70 days | Soil Drainage: |
| Spacing: | 1-2 feet | Companion Planting: |
| Planting Depth: | Seeds on surface, transplants to depth of pot | Family: |
| Height: | 5 feet | Genus: |
Is lemon balm toxic to dogs?
Lemon balm, known scientifically as Melissa officinalis, is a non-toxic herb that can be used on dogs, cats, and even horses. As a supplement for your dog, lemon balm has many benefits that may help with several different conditions.
What is a companion plant for lemon balm?
Companion Plants for Lemon Balm
Companion plants include dill, basil, squash, broccoli, cabbage family, cauliflower, hollyhocks, melons, angelica, nasturtiums, squash, tomatoes. Its beautiful flowers attract beneficial pollinators, and the leaf’s strong aroma deter pests such as cabbage moths, mosquitoes, and gnats.
Will lemon balm survive winter?
Like mint, lemon balm is quite hardy and can be overwintered as far north as hardiness zones 4 and 5. It is always a good idea to mulch plants year-round, but winter mulch is of the utmost importance. Mulch helps keep the ground frozen in areas where the ground freezes and keeps it warmer in areas where it doesn’t.
What can I do with a lot of lemon balm?
Add whole lemon balm leaves to green salads, or chiffonade the leaves and scatter them over a fruit salad for added zesty flavor. Lemon balm also pairs beautifully with poultry—try adding sliced leaves to chicken salad, fish dishes, and even vegetable dishes to serve on the side.
Does lemon balm multiply?
Just add a single plant to your garden, and it’ll come back (and possibly multiply) year after year. Lemon balm can be used as an insect repellent, to make your own herbal tea, and to attract bees. It really doesn’t take much effort to be successful with this lovely-smelling plant.
How do you control lemon balm?
The most effective way to keep lemon balm in bounds is to prevent the plant from going to seed. One way to accomplish this is to shear the plant two or three times every year so it doesn’t bloom. Don’t worry; cutting the plant back won’t hurt it.
When should I trim my lemon balm?
How to Prune Lemon Balm
- Pinch back the main stems when they reach 6 to 8 inches tall, typically at transplanting.
- Cut back the entire plant once a month after it reaches full size in early to mid summer.
- Remove the old flowers once they wilt.
- Inspect the plant monthly during pruning.
What herbs spread the most?
List of Highly Invasive Herbs
- All Mints, including Peppermint and Spearmint.
- Pennyroyal, a member of the mint family.
- Comfrey.
- Bee Balm.
- Lemon Balm.
How tall do lemon balm grow?
Traditional lemon balm is a vigorous plant that eventually makes a large leafy clump, and sends up flower stems that can reach 80cm (32in) tall.
What plant will overtake weeds?
10 Ground Cover Plants That Choke Out Weeds
- Creeping Thyme.
- Phlox Subulata.
- Moss.
- Wild strawberry.
- Trailing Rosemary.
- Dragon’s Blood Sedum.
- Creeping Jenny.
- Phlox Stolonifera.
Do bees like lemon balm?
Lemon Balm (Melissa) – Lemon Balm is known by many names, Melissa, the genus name means “honeybee” and it is definitely a favorite of the bees. It’s also a wonderful herb to have on hand. The leaves are antibacterial, anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, antiviral, sedative and aromatic.
Do cats like lemon balm?
– Lemon balm: Melissa officinalis is not only a cat favorite, but this herb also makes a wonderful tea and emits a lemon-like fragrance.