This herb in the mint family provides a delightful lemony flavor and smell. It is used as both a culinary and medicinal herb. Perennial 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. Makes a lovely lemon-flavored sweet tea!
We’ll ship this as a a live plant, with the roots and crown (foliage trimmed off) in a moist bag.
Lemon Balm – Melissa officinalis
Planting: Bury roots in moist soil, leaving the crown somewhat emerged from the soil. Water well after transplanting.
Soil & Growing Conditions: Prefers rich, moist, yet well-drained soil (6.5 to 7.0 pH) and doesn’t require too much fertilizer. Requires moderate water. Use mulch, especially over the first winter. Some sources suggest replacing the plants every 3-4 years.
Harvesting & Storage: Harvest leaves before plant flowers for optimal flavor. Use leaves fresh or freeze/dry for later use. Harvest regularly to encourage healthy growth.
Zones: 3-7Height At Maturity: 2-3′Sun/Shade: Full Sun/Partial ShadeSpacing After Thinning: 18-24″Root crowns: 1
Product image via: Seeds for Generations
