Lemon Balm brings delicious, easy calm. Lemon Balm is easy to grow, abundant and uplifts the spirit. Lemon balm is a member of the mint family, so grows easily and is happy to spread wherever it can receive moisture. (Melissa officinalis)
Why We Love It
Here are some of the reasons why we love Lemon Balm...
1) CALMING - Lemon Balm calms the nervous system. It helps with sleep issues and soothes stress. Because it's so safe and delicious, it's a wonderful herb to use with children.
2) STRENGTHENS MEMORY - Lemon Balm has been shown in research to improve memory recall and improve focus and attention.
3) POTENT ANTI-VIRAL - Lemon Balm is a great herb to use for upper respiratory infections and fever. It's effective against the toughest viruses, including the herpes virus.
How to Grow It
| SUN | PART SUN OR SHADE |
| MOISTURE | LOVES MOIST, WELL-DRAINED SOIL |
| GROWING ZONES | USDA 4-9 (Not sure? Find your growing zone here) |
| SIZE | 2 feet tall and wide |
| PRO TIP |
Needs light to germinate so just press into soil and tamp firmly. Rubbing the seeds gently on sandpaper before planting helps them germinate better. They like to be planted when it's cool, so plant in Fall or early Spring, or put in the refrigerator for 2 weeks before planting. Winter Sowing is the easiest way to start these seeds. Here's a seed-starting tutorial for you. You won't believe how easy it is! |
How to Harvest and Use It
Lemon balm is best harvested on hot summer days when the oils are abundant and the smell is strong. Continue to harvest throughout the summer months to help make your lemon balm grow bushy and full. Here's a wonderful video from Rosalee de la Foret on the benefits and how to use Lemon Balm: