How to Grow Lemon Balm Plant Outdoors

Lemon balm, also known by its scientific name Melissa officinalis, is a perennial herb that belongs to the mint family. It is a popular plant among garden enthusiasts due to its pleasant lemony fragrance and its many culinary and medicinal uses. Growing lemon balm outdoors is relatively easy, and it can be a great addition to any garden or herb patch. In this article, we will guide you through the process of growing lemon balm plant outdoors.

Choosing the Right Location

Before planting your lemon balm, it is important to choose the right location. Lemon balm thrives in full sun to partial shade, so select an area in your garden that receives at least six hours of sunlight per day. The soil should be well-draining, fertile, and rich in organic matter. If the soil in your garden is heavy clay or sandy, consider amending it with compost or well-rotted manure to improve its structure and nutrient content.

Planting Lemon Balm

Once you have identified the perfect spot, it’s time to plant your lemon balm. You have two options when it comes to planting lemon balm: starting from seeds or using transplants.

Starting from Seeds

If you choose to start from seeds, sow them directly into the prepared soil after the last frost date in your area. Lemon balm seeds are small and require light for germination, so sprinkle them on the surface of the soil and lightly press them down. Keep the soil consistently moist until germination occurs, which usually takes around 10-14 days.

Using Transplants

Alternatively, you can purchase lemon balm transplants from a local nursery or garden center. Transplants are more convenient if you want to have mature plants faster. Dig a hole slightly larger than the root ball of the transplant and place it in the hole. Make sure the top of the root ball is level with or slightly above the soil surface. Backfill the hole with soil, firming it gently around the roots. Water the plant thoroughly after planting.

Caring for Lemon Balm

Lemon balm is a relatively low-maintenance plant, but it still requires proper care to thrive.

Watering

Water your lemon balm regularly to keep the soil evenly moist. However, be cautious not to overwater, as excessive moisture can lead to root rot. Check the soil moisture regularly by inserting your finger into the soil. If it feels dry at a depth of about an inch, it’s time to water. Mulching around the base of the plant can help retain moisture and suppress weeds.

Fertilizing

Lemon balm generally doesn’t require much fertilizer, but applying a balanced organic fertilizer in early spring can give it a boost. Avoid using excessive amounts of nitrogen-rich fertilizers, as this can promote foliage growth at the expense of essential oil production.

Pruning

Regular pruning is crucial for maintaining a healthy and compact lemon balm plant. Prune back the stems by one-third in early spring to encourage bushier growth. Additionally, remove any dead or damaged leaves throughout the growing season. Regular harvesting also helps keep the plant in check and promotes new growth.

Pests and Diseases

Lemon balm is relatively resistant to pests and diseases. However, it can occasionally be affected by aphids or spider mites. To control these pests, spray your lemon balm plants with a strong stream of water or use insecticidal soap if necessary. Proper spacing between plants can also improve air circulation and reduce the risk of fungal diseases.

Harvesting Lemon Balm

One of the best things about growing lemon balm is that you can harvest its leaves throughout the growing season for culinary or medicinal purposes. The leaves are most flavorful just before the plant starts to flower. To harvest, simply snip off the leaves using clean and sharp scissors.

Lemon balm leaves can be used fresh or dried. If you choose to dry them, hang them in bunches upside down in a dark, well-ventilated area. Once fully dry, store the leaves in an airtight container away from direct sunlight.

Culinary and Medicinal Uses

Lemon balm has a wide range of culinary and medicinal uses. Its leaves can be used to add a refreshing lemony flavor to teas, salads, desserts, and cocktails. They can also be infused in oils or vinegars for culinary purposes.

Medicinally, lemon balm is known for its calming properties and is often used in herbal remedies for stress and anxiety. It can be brewed into a soothing tea or used as an ingredient in homemade balms and salves for skin irritations.

Conclusion

Growing lemon balm outdoors is a rewarding experience that allows you to enjoy the delightful fragrance and versatile uses of this herb. By choosing the right location, providing proper care, and harvesting at the right time, you can have a thriving lemon balm plant in your garden. So why not give it a try? Your garden and your taste buds will thank you!