Keep plants well watered during dry spells in summer, and cut back after flowering to encourage a fresh flush of leaves. Lemon balm will self-seed readily, so if you don’t want more plants, remember to remove the faded flowers before they set seed.
How do you keep a lemon balm plant alive?
Light. In both indoor and outdoor environments, lemon balm loves a sunny spot. However, unlike an outdoor lemon balm plant—which can tolerate a bit of shade—those planted indoors need ample sunlight, at least five to six hours a day. Place your herb containers near a windowsill that gets ample light throughout the day.
Is lemon balm an annual or perennial?
The lemon balm plant (Melissa officinalis) is actually a member of the mint family and is a perennial herb. It grows as a bushy, leafy herb with a pleasant lemon smell and small white flowers. If not carefully controlled, lemon balm can quickly become invasive in the garden.
How long does lemon balm keep?
Lemon balm (Melissa officinalis) is a Mediterranean herb with an incredibly long lifespan of around twenty to thirty years.
Can 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.
Can lemon balm grow in pots?
Yes, lemon balm is one of the easiest herbs to grow in a container. It will flourish in a pot with rich, well-drained potting mix. Pots must be watered often, daily in the heat of summer.
When should lemon balm be cut back?
With variegated cultivars, cut back in early summer to encourage fresh, strongly coloured shoots. Lemon balm is a long-lived plant than can form a congested clump – so lift and divide every few years in autumn to rejuvenate plants.
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.
Should I cut back lemon balm in the fall?
Winter growing: Cut back lemon balm in fall leaving just 2 inches of stem. The plant may freeze back to the ground in winter but will re-grow from underground roots and renew itself in spring.
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.
Is lemon balm invasive?
Lemon balm is part of the mint family, and spreads just like mint and become very invasive.
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.
Can you eat lemon balm leaves Raw?
You can certainly enjoy lemon balm fresh on salads, or in your favorite recipes, too. Be brave! Experiment with its bright flavor.
Does lemon balm repel mosquitoes?
Lemon Balm
The lemon scent, which repels the bugs, is powerful. It rubs off very well onto the skin. Lemon balm repels mosquitoes and gnats.
What can I do with fresh lemon balm?
12+ Things to Do With Lemon Balm:
- Make a sleepy time herbal syrup:
- Make a lemon balm bug spray:
- Chop fresh leaves and sprinkle on salads or in baked goods:
- Make a lip balm for cold sores:
- Make a glycerite:
- Make a relaxing, tummy soothing tea:
- Make lemon balm soap:
- Make a simple remedy for bug bites & acne:
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.
Can you eat lemon balm?
The whole plant is edible, though its the tender leaves you are after. Lemon balm has a long history of a wide array herbal medicine uses, in particular for soothing, calming and raising the spirit – just one smell of the crushed leaves does all of these for me.
How often should you water lemon balm?
1. Water: Water the roots of the lemon balm plant at least once a week. Allow the top inch of soil to completely dry before watering as overly moist soil can lead to root rot for lemon balm. 2.
Why is my lemon balm drooping?
Also, water only when the plants need watering. Feel the soil before watering, making sure it’s not already wet. Because all plants in the mint family will begin to droop a little when they need water, that’s another good indication that it’s time to water.
Can you grow lemon balm in a hanging basket?
Container Growing
Lemon balm is a great option for container gardening, and it pairs well with summer annuals such as dill or basil. To grow lemon balm in a container, plant seeds or transplants in a pot that is at least eight inches deep and 15 to 18-inches wide.
Why are my lemon balm leaves turning brown?
Lemon balm leaves turn brown when the plant can’t take up enough water to keep the leaves hydrated. The thirsty tissues become scorched from lack of moisture. Tender, young leaves are most vulnerable, because they are farthest from the plant’s main waterways.