How to Grow Balm Lemon
Perennial
Balm Lemon, also called Lemon Balm or just plain Balm, is an easy to grow
herb. As it's name suggests, it gives off a lemony scent in the herb garden.
The edible leaves have a lemony flavor, too. Native to Asia and the Mediterranean
region, Balm Lemon will feel right at home in full sun, or a lightly shaded
area of your garden. Place it near your kitchen window, where its lemony
scent can waft into your kitchen on a gentle breeze.
Balm Lemon plants grow from two to twenty-two feet tall. Most home garden
varieties grow 2'-3' tall. Balm Lemon plants are very aggressive, and grow
like weeds. We recommend containing them with a border edging around the
plants, dug about 6-8 inches below the soil.
Bees are attracted to the flowers.
Propagation:
Balm Lemon is grown from seed. We recommend an early indoor start. If planted
outdoors, the tiny seeds can easily wash out of the soil in a spring rain.
Balm Lemon is commonly grown by division of the roots. Left unattended, this
aggressive plant will do just fine, rapidly spreading its roots into other
areas of the garden or lawn. It can also be propagated by cuttings.
How to Grow Balm Lemon:
Balm Lemon is very easy to grow. It prefers full sun to light shade, and
a moist, slightly rich soil. They also do well in average soils.
Space seedlings or thin plants to 24" apart, in rows two feet apart. They
will quickly grow and spread, if allowed. They will tolerate a little crowding.
Balm Lemon prefers moist soil. Water them during dry periods, at least once
a week.
Add a general purpose fertilizer once a month.
Flowers will go to seed quickly. Aggressively cut back plants to keep lush,
new growth.
Harvest leaves when young and tender. To preserve leaves, dry them immediately.
Then, put them into a sealed container so they do not lose their flavor.
Main Culinary Uses:
Try Balm Lemon to flavor meat sauces, in salads and meat dishes. It can be
used to flavor teas and fruit punches.
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