Lemon Balm (Melissa officinalis)

Lemon Balm (Melissa Officinalis)

A very easy to grow perennial herb, known for its lemon-scented foliage and creamy-white or pale purple flowers in summer.

Lemon Balm is great to use for a lemon tang in salads or sauces and goes well with fish as an alternative to lemon juice.  Use fresh or dried to make a refreshing herb tea that can be drunk hot or over ice. For a touch of summer, add to a jug of Pimms! 2.5ft  (0.80m)

Average Contents: 500 Seeds

H: 0.80m
Sow: Mar-May

Plant Out: Apr-Jun
Harvest: Pick fresh leaves as required throughout summer. Leaves for drying are best harvested before plants start to flower.
Moist but well-drained soil in full sun or partial shade

GROWING ADVICE

Sow the seeds indoors from March to May. Scatter thinly onto lightly firmed, moist well-drained seed compost. Cover with a fine layer of compost. Always water the pots from the bottom so as not to disturb the seeds. The seeds need light and gentle heat for germination so place the pot in a polythene bag in a warm place.

When seedlings are large enough to handle, transplant into larger pots. Acclimatise and plant out once danger of frost has passed.

If growing in pots, make sure that the plants are well watered.

See our website for more tips and advice on growing and cooking with herbs.

Lemon Balm seeds are also included in our Grow Your Own Herbal Tea Gift Set, a great way to grow your own refreshing herbal teas!

We would love to see what you grow or make – tag us on Instagram @thepeacefulpotager