Like other mint family members, lemon balm has scalloped, oval- to heart-shaped leaves that grow opposite one another on square (four-sided) stems. Its leaves are bright green on top and whitish below.
What does lemon balm look like when it flowers?
The white tiny flowers are fairly inconspicuous. The inconspicuous white flowers, sometimes with a yellowish or pinkish tinge, bloom in the leaf axils throughout the summer and are attractive to bees. Because lemon balm is rich in nectar, it is sometimes planted to feed bees.
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 long does it take for lemon balm to grow?
Quick Reference Growing Guide
| Plant Type: | Herbaceous perennial | Water Needs: |
|---|---|---|
| Exposure: | Full sun to partial shade | Soil pH: |
| Time to Maturity: | 70 days | Soil Drainage: |
| Spacing: | 1-2 feet | Companion Planting: |
| Planting Depth: | Seeds on surface, transplants to depth of pot | Family: |
Does lemon balm come up every year?
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.
How do you identify lemon balm?
Most mints look similar and they all have square stems, which makes them pretty easy to identify, and if it smells like lemons then it’s most likely lemon balm.
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.
Does lemon balm keep cats away?
More plants that repel cats
Other plants that can protect your garden from cats are lemon balm, peppermint, mint, lemongrass, citronella, curry herb, and penny royal.
Is lemon balm edible raw?
Edibility – 5/5 – Strongly aromatic, reminiscent of sweet lemon, with menthol qualities (without actually being “minty”). The whole plant is edible, though its the tender leaves you are after.
What kills lemon balm?
How to Eradicate Lemon Balm
- Loosen the soil underneath unwanted lemon balm plants using a garden trowel or fork.
- Remove all roots with your garden tools.
- Spread mulch in the affected area to prevent any regrowth.
- Apply an organic herbicide, such as one containing clove oil, should the previous methods fail.
How do you maintain lemon balm?
Watering: Lemon balm requires regular, even watering. It grows best in slightly moist soil. Once established lemon balm tolerates drought. Feeding: Lemon balm does not require extra feeding; side-dress plants with aged compost during the growing season.
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 harvest lemon balm after it flowers?
You can harvest handfuls of lemon balm leaves for fresh use almost any time during the growing season. For a large harvest of leaves that will be dried for tea or medicinal use, it is preferable to wait until the plant begins to put on flower buds or just as the flowers begin to open.
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.
Should you deadhead lemon balm?
Deadheading is a must for lemon balm plants. The dead flower heads contain seeds, and if they drop to the ground, the plant self-sows and continues to spread throughout your garden.
Do butterflies like lemon balm?
When lemon balm flowers, it brings in bees and butterflies and other beneficial pollinators. (Check out other plants I recommend to attract pollinators here.)
What does wild lemon balm look like?
The leaves are similar in shape to mint leaves. They are light green in color, crinkled, slightly hairy, strongly toothed on the margins, more or less egg shaped and about 1” to 3” in length. As is typical of herbaceous mints, lemon balm leaves are arranged in opposing pairs on square stems.
Is the plant lemon balm edible?
Culinary uses and recipes with Lemon Balm
Lemon balm has a pleasant lemony flavour with a hint of mint. Toss young leaves into salads and use as aromatic herb in tomato bruschetta or fish marinades and salsas. Additionally, the fresh flavour is good in fruit desserts, refreshing drinks, ice cream and cakes.
What is the difference between lemon grass and lemon balm?
Lemon balm has a lighter flavor than lemon grass, but it gives off a very zesty scent that makes it perfect for aromatic teas. It won’t alter the flavor of your tea as much, but it will add just the slightest lemony tang that gives you the hint of acid you want.
Can you overwater lemon balm?
Lemon Balm has very few pests or diseases. However, they can suffer root rot if overwatered. This may be the cause for your damaged leaves. Regardless of the cause, you’ll want to take several steps to prevent further problems.
Does lemon balm grow well in a container?
Lemon balm is easy to grow in containers, and it’s perfect because containers curb invasive growth.