Lemon Balm

This herb in the mint family provides a delightful lemony flavor and smell. It is used as both a culinary and medicinal herb. Perennial in Zones 3-7 under the right conditions (i.e., proper soil and mulch) that spreads itself through roots and seeds, so it can become invasive like other mints.

Lemon Balm – Melissa officinalis

Soil & Water: Prefers rich, sandy, well-draining soil with a pH about 6.1-7.5. Requires moderate water. (Fertilizing is said to reduce its flavor.)

Planting & Growing: Start seeds indoors about 6-8 weeks before your spring frost, then transplant into the garden after hardening off seedlings. Or direct sow on the soil surface. 20⁰F or lower causes plant to go dormant for winter.

Harvesting & Storage: Harvest leaves before plant flowers for optimal flavor. Use leaves fresh or freeze/dry for later use.

Soil Temperature: 70F
Planting Depth: 1/8″
Germination: 14-21 Days
Height At Maturity: 24-36″
Days To Maturity: 70 Days
Sun/Shade: Partial Sun
Spacing After Thinning: 12-15″
Approx Seeds per Pack: 100

Product image via: Peaceful Valley Farm Supply