Lemon Balm
Melissa officinalis
A hardy, bushy herb with a lemon scent and soft leaves. It grows well in the ground or a pot in most UK gardens, and will spread if you let it.
Growing Guide
Step-by-step instructions for growing Lemon Balm
Planting Calendar
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Sow Seeds
Sow seed thinly on the surface of moist seed compost around . Barely cover it, because light helps germination, and keep the compost just damp until seedlings appear.
Thin or Prick Out
When the seedlings are large enough to handle, thin them or prick them out into small pots. Keep them growing in bright light and water carefully so the roots do not dry out.
Harden Off
Move the young plants outside gradually over if you started them under cover. This helps them adjust to wind and cooler air before planting out.
Plant Out
Plant into a sunny or lightly shaded spot once the soil is workable and the plants are sturdy. Water in thoroughly at , then keep them moist while they settle, or pot them on into a larger container with free-draining compost.
Pinch and Water
every 2 weeksFrom , water during dry spells and pinch out the tips regularly to keep plants bushy and delay flowering. If the weather turns very dry, give container plants extra attention so growth stays soft and leafy.
Harvest Leaves
every 2 weeksStart picking once plants are well established, from , by snipping the top growth just above a leaf pair. Harvest often through , and cut back any flower stems to keep the flavour best.
Companion Plants
Tap a plant to see why it works (or doesn't) with Lemon Balm.
Good companions
Plants to avoid
Why companion planting matters
Companion planting can deter pests, improve pollination, and make better use of space. Some plants confuse pests or attract beneficial insects; others improve soil or offer shade to neighbours that need it.
Suggested Varieties
Popular varieties of Lemon Balm to consider
Aurea
Golden-leaved form with a mild lemon scent and pale foliage that brightens a pot or herb bed.
All Gold
Compact golden selection with soft yellow leaves and the same fresh flavour as the green form.
Citronella
Strong-growing type with a pronounced lemon scent, useful for regular cutting.
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