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Lemon Balm Organic
Organic Seed

Lemon Balm Organic

Melissa officinalis
The glistening crinkled leaves of lemon balm hold a store of intense lemon-scented oils in their foliage and an irresistible amount of nectar for bee visitors. Native to southern Europe, it has a long association with beehives and, due to its thriftiness and delightful scent, is a constant in cottage gardens.
SKU #S1234OG
$3.25
Details
Approximate Seeds Per Packet
160
Lifecycle
Perennial
Perennial Hardiness Zone
4,
5,
6,
7,
8,
9
Mature Size
2' h x 2' w
Sun
Full sun to partial shade
Soil
Regular to rich, well-drained
Season
Summer to fall
Color
Pale yellow to white
Features
Scented Leaves
Great for containers
Deer Resistant
Heat or Drought Tolerant
Attracts Butterflies
Attracts Bees
Attracts Beneficial Insects
Notable
Certified Organic Seed Available
SOWING INSTRUCTIONS
Depth:
Just cover
Sprout Time:
14-21 days
Starting Indoors:
Start indoors 4-6 weeks before planting out. Keep at 65-70°F.
Starting Outdoors:
Direct sow in spring or fall.
WHEN TO SET OUTSIDE
In springtime, after all danger of frost has passed.
PLACEMENT & CULTIVATION
Lemon balm is a handsome addition to herb and bee gardens. The Greeks named it Melissa, meaning bee or honey, for its abundant stash of nectar, and it was always associated with beehives. It spreads readily by rhizomes and seeds, so trim back hard after bloom or grow in a large pot to contain its rambunctious ways. The highly fragrant lemon-scented leaves make delicious teas, iced or hot, and add flavor to soups, sauces, and salad dressings. This member of the mint family also has medicinal uses as a calming herb and is excellent for anxiety and sleep issues. A short-lived perennial that renews itself with dropped seeds or by division.
Final Spacing:
1'
Water Requirements:
Medium Water Use
Watering Details:
Provide about an inch or so of water per week, especially during dry spells. Do not allow the soil to stay saturated. Somewhat drought tolerant once fully established.
Soil pH:
Prefers acid soil, about 5.5-6.5, but adaptable to neutral
Fertilizer:
If soil is poor, mix in a couple of inches of compost prior to planting.
Diseases & Pests:
No major problems.