How to Grow Lemon Balm

A year-round herb for the home garden across the warmer US.

Lemon Balm is a rewarding year-round crop for backyard growers.

When to plant

In frost-free regions lemon balm can be grown almost year-round. Elsewhere, plant in the milder months on either side of summer. See your region on the lemon balm page for exact timing.

Varieties

• Lemon Balm, Classic Melissa officinalis (garden centers)

How to grow it

• Sun & soil: part sun to light shade, rich well-drained soil with even moisture.
• Spacing: about 30 cm (12 in) between plants.
• Sowing: barely cover the seed.
• Water: roughly 4 L per plant every 3 days in hot weather.
• Containers: grows well in a pot of 20cm+.

Pests & problems

Watch for Few. In humid regions, Powdery mildew can appear, so space for airflow and water at the roots in the morning.

Harvest

Lemon Balm is usually ready to harvest in about 2 months. Pick regularly to keep plants productive.

When to plant in your region

Pick your region to see exactly when to plant lemon balm where you garden.

See also: Lemon Balm in the plant library →

Related guides