Growing and Saving the Seed Of Balm

HISTORY

Lemon Balm is native to Europe and the Mediterranean. For more than 2,000 years, this herb has been cultivated as a culinary and medicinal plant.

USES

• Seeds germinate in 7-14 days.
• Start indoors 6-8 weeks before last frost, covering seeds very lightly and keeping moist until sprouts appear.
• Keep the seed moist until germination.
• Light helps seeds to germinate.
• Set outside after last frost or direct sow in the garden, two weeks before last frost.
• Ideal germination temperature is 65-75 F.

• Easy to grow in average soil, and these vigorous plants need little care.
• Most readily self-sow.
• They like full sun to light shade and average, well-drained soil.
• The plants should not be kept saturated or allowed to wilt.
• Water thoroughly when irrigation is necessary and allow them to dry slightly between waterings. Somewhat drought tolerant.
• Deadhead faded blooms to encourage the plant to rebloom in late summer.

PESTS/SPECIAL CONSIDERATIONS

• Not usually bothered by pest or disease.
• The most common insect pests are aphids, spider mites, thrips, stalk borers, and whiteflies.
• Growers may also see caterpillars, grasshoppers, leafhoppers and slugs on occasion.
• Can also be susceptible to powdery mildew and root rot in the right conditions.

• Seeds usually mature 1-3 weeks after flowers bloom.
• To test, bend spent head into a bag and tap. If seeds are brown, they are ready.
• Spread out and allow to dry for 2-3 days.