Lemon balm care guide
Melissa officinalis
Also known as: Balm, Melissa
Pets and children
We haven't been able to confirm how this plant affects pets or small children. If any is eaten, consult a veterinarian or a doctor.
How often to water Lemon balm
- Spring–Summer (Mar–Sep)
- Every 2 days
- Likes moist soil: water thoroughly once the topsoil is dry, as a guide, checking in the morning in midsummer when it dries fast.
- Autumn (Oct–Nov)
- Every 3 days
- Cooler weather slows drying, so water once the soil is dry, as a guide.
- Winter (Dec–Feb)
- Every 7 days
- The top dies back and the plant rests, so a light watering a few days after the soil dries is the guide.
Light and placement for Lemon balm
Generally grows in sun to part shade, with morning sun and afternoon shade as the guide; direct midsummer sun scorches the leaves, so move it to bright shade then.
Overwintering Lemon balm
Overwintering guide: −10°C (14°F) or above
Hardy and generally left outdoors over winter as a guide: the top dies back, new shoots rise from the base in spring, and watering is kept sparing meanwhile.
Fertilizing and repotting Lemon balm
Fertilizer
Feed lightly: a little slow-release fertilizer or diluted liquid feed about once or twice a month in spring and fall, as a guide, with none in midsummer or winter.
When to repot
Spring–Summer (Mar–Sep), Autumn (Oct–Nov)
Common problems with Lemon balm
- Direct midsummer sun scorches the leaves brown.
- It wilts when dry, and repeated wilting drops the lower leaves.
- Once it flowers the leaves toughen and the scent fades.
Tips for growing Lemon balm
- The scent peaks before flowering, so cut it back for harvest when buds show.
- It self-seeds freely; remove spent flowers early if you do not want more plants.
- Fresh leaves make a fragrant tea; the scent fades quickly once dried.
These are AI-generated general guidelines. They vary with the variety, the placement and the pot size. For effects on pets or children, consult a veterinarian or a doctor.
Keep your plant log going
Greenery is a free app that keeps your plant care going, with watering reminders and photo records. Available on iOS and Android.
