Melissa officinalis

Lemon balm is a soothing herb, said to help reduce anxiety and improve sleep. This powerhouse plant is also an antiviral used as a natural remedy for upset stomachs. Use lemon balm on cakes, whip it into pesto, or steep it in tea. 

Sprouts in: 1 - 2 weeks

Harvest in: 5 - 12 weeks

• Grows best in temperatures between 18 - 30 °C / 64 - 86 °F.

• In 1 month it should be ready for first harvesting. Just pinch off the tips of the plant. Cut the plant or collect some leaves.

• If some leaves turn brown, feel free to cut them off with the stem- new leaves will grow soon from its growing point.

• It's easy to prune and basically not possible to harm it. You can even decide to cut the whole plant 5 cm / 2 inch above the ground or leave at least 2 pairs of true leaves to grow when it’s full grown to promote new growth.

• Lemon balm is great for drying and this way you can save it for later. Lay them on a paper towel sheet and put them in a well ventilated area away from direct sunlight.

• Depending on how much you love your Lemon Balm and how often you prune it, one pod may last up to 90 days.

• If your plant is old and starts to degrade, feel free to remove the plant from the cavity and plant it outdoors. Lemon Balm will grow well as a perennial herb also in hardy climates.