Characteristics:
Has
intensely lemon-scented, heart-shaped leaves on stems up to 2 1/2 feet high.
It produces inconspicuous white flowers in summer and fall. Unlike other mints,
it does not produce rapidly spreading runners. Growing
Information:
Easy
to grow in well-drained, average to sandy soil and full sun to light shade.
If growth is slow, fertilize once or twice during the growing season. Deadhead
to prevent self-sowing and keep foliage from yellowing. Propagation:
The
most convenient way to start lemon balm is by dividing existing plants in spring
and fall or transplanting self-sown seedlings in late spring. You can also
sow seed outdoors in early spring or start seedlings indoors 8 weeks before
the last spring frost. To bring lemon balm indoors for winter, take stem cuttings
in midsummer. Cultivars:
You
can find variegated lemon balm; give it partial shade to retain leaf color
in summer. Possible
Problems:
Thin
out thickly growing clumps to prevent powdery mildew. Harvesting
and Using:
Fresh
lemon balm will perfume a room with its lemony scent. But it has more fragrance
than flavor and is strongest when fresh. Cut sprigs as you need them through
the growing season and use them for herb tea, garnishing iced tea or wine,
cooking with poultry or fish, or flavoring soups. |