Lemon Balm is one of the easiest growing plants like all mint families. Outdoors, seed can either be sown in mid-spring after all dangers of frost have passed or in early fall to late winter. But winter sowing has advantages over spring sowing. In the wintertime, seeds are sown and germinate at the optimal time based on the weather conditions. They produce more challenging and more vigorous seedlings with higher germination rates than seeds sown indoors. Sow seeds six to eight weeks before the last frost. It would help fill small pots containing a light seed-starting mix lightly with the mixture. Sprinkle seeds on the soil's surface and then lightly scratch them in before watering. In colder temperatures, seeds can take up to fourteen days to germinate.

CARE AFTER GERMINATION OF BALM LEMON

The time has come for the tiny plants to be cared for—plant seedlings into larger containers with their second pair of true leaves. Thin them to just one or two per pot after the second set of true leaves emerges. Lemon balm tends to sprawl and crawl, so make sure to leave plenty of room between it and nearby plants. Plants need to be controlled and kept tidy during the growing season by pinching or cutting back stem tips. If your mature plants are scraggly or spindly, divide them every three to five years. That will help plants to grow more.

WHAT IS LEMON BALM?

Lemon balm (Melissa officinalis) is a herb in the mint family. It is often used to flavor baked goods or teas; it is also used to marinate chicken and fish. Other medical disorders treatable with lemon balm include those affecting the digestive system, nervous system, and liver. There is evidence that the compound rosmarinic acid in lemon balm may have antioxidant and antimicrobial properties, making it a popular herb for relieving stress and anxiety.