Lemon Balm germinates in 10-20 days and it is ready to harvest in around 70 days.
Growing lemon balm in grow bags can be a convenient and space-efficient way to cultivate this aromatic herb. Lemon balm (Melissa officinalis) is known for its pleasant lemon scent and is commonly used in culinary and medicinal applications. Here's a guide on how to grow lemon balm in grow bags:
1. Choose the Right Grow Bag:
Select a grow bag that is at least 12 inches deep and has a capacity of at least 5 gallons. Ensure that the bag has good drainage holes at the bottom.
2. Soil Mix:
Use a well-draining potting mix with a balanced pH (around 6.0 to 7.5). You can mix in some compost or well-rotted manure to improve the soil's fertility.
3. Planting:
Plant lemon balm seeds or small seedlings in the grow bag. If you're starting from seeds, sow them about 1/4 inch deep in the soil. For seedlings, space them about 12 to 18 inches apart.
4. Sunlight:
Lemon balm thrives in partial to full sunlight. Ensure that the grow bag receives at least 6 hours of sunlight per day.
5. Watering:
Keep the soil consistently moist but not waterlogged. Water the lemon balm when the top inch of the soil feels dry. Grow bags may require more frequent watering than traditional garden beds.
6. Fertilizing:
Lemon balm generally doesn't require heavy fertilization. You can apply a balanced, all-purpose fertilizer once a month during the growing season.
7. Pruning:
Prune the lemon balm regularly to encourage bushier growth and to prevent it from becoming leggy. Pinch back the tips of the stems, and harvest leaves as needed.
8. Pests and Diseases:
Keep an eye out for pests like aphids or spider mites. If you notice any issues, you can use insecticidal soap or neem oil as a natural remedy. Lemon balm is generally resistant to most diseases.
9. Harvesting:
You can start harvesting lemon balm leaves once the plant is well-established. Harvest in the morning when the essential oils are most concentrated. Cut stems just above a set of leaves, and the plant will continue to grow.
10. Winter Care:
Lemon balm is a perennial herb, and it may die back in winter. Mulch around the base of the plant to protect the roots during colder months.
11. Container Movement:
One of the advantages of using grow bags is that they are portable. If you expect extremely hot or cold weather, you can move the grow bags to a more suitable location.
Companion Plants:
Companion planting involves growing different plants together to enhance each other's growth, repel pests, or provide other benefits. Lemon balm is known for its pleasant aroma and ability to attract pollinators, making it a versatile companion in the garden. Here are some companion plants that can work well with lemon balm:
Chamomile: Both lemon balm and chamomile have calming properties and can complement each other well. Chamomile can attract beneficial insects and improve the flavor of neighboring herbs.
Tomatoes: Lemon balm can help repel certain pests that commonly affect tomatoes, such as aphids and whiteflies. Tomatoes, in turn, provide some shade to lemon balm.
Bee Balm (Monarda): Bee balm and lemon balm share similar names, and they also make good companions. Bee balm attracts pollinators like bees and butterflies, benefiting nearby plants.
Oregano and Thyme: These aromatic herbs can grow well with lemon balm, creating a fragrant and useful herb garden. They also have similar care requirements.
Lavender: Lavender and lemon balm both have calming scents and can attract pollinators. Planting them together can create a beautiful and aromatic garden.
Cabbage Family (Brassicas): Lemon balm may help repel cabbage moths, which can be a pest for cabbage, broccoli, and other Brassica family members.
Rosemary: Rosemary is a hardy herb that can provide some shade to lemon balm. Both plants have similar sunlight and water requirements.
Marigolds: Marigolds are known for repelling nematodes and some other pests. Planting them alongside lemon balm can contribute to a healthier garden.
Dill: Dill attracts beneficial insects like predatory wasps, which can help control garden pests. It also complements the flavor of lemon balm.
Nasturtiums: Nasturtiums are not only visually appealing but can also attract aphids away from lemon balm. They act as sacrificial plants, drawing pests away from more valuable herbs.
Lemon Balm does not grow well with Basil or other annual herbs.
How do I fertilize my Lemon Balm?
Lemon Balm grows best in slightly moist soil. Lemon balm does not require extra feeding. Fertilize once a month with a liquid fertilizer during the growing season.
What bugs attack Lemon Balm and what gets rid of them?
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Even though aphids are considered minor pests of celery, they can be virus vectors. The soft-bodied adults put their needle-like mouths into plant tissue and suck the plant’s juices. While they are taking nutrients from the plant, these pests also insert toxins that affect the plant’s growth.
Aphids can be controlled with an insecticidal soap. Always spray plants in the early evening to reduce the chance of damage. Pay special attention to the lower leaf because that is where they usually are located.
What soil pH is best for Lemon Balm?
Space lemon balm 20 to 24 inches apart in an area with partial shade and fertile, well-drained soil with a pH of 6.5 to 7.0.
How do you store Lemon Balm?
Refrigerate fresh lemon balm in a glass of water for up to 2 weeks. Sprigs of lemon balm are kind of like flowers so they'll stay fresh when you store them in water. Place the lemon balm stems into cool water and pop a plastic bag loosely over the top. The bag prevents the lemon balm from drying out in the fridge. Frozen herbs can be used in the same proportion as fresh herbs. Remember though they will be limp when defrosted, but will still add fabulous flavor to your cooking.
Interesting facts:
In medieval times, the herb was used to transfer messages between people as its calming effect represented sympathy.
Like mint, lemon balm is also invasive and spreads quickly.
It is a garden herb and can be grown from cuttings or seeds.
Lemon balm is used in chicken salads, vegetables, and fish dishes. It is also included in many juices and healthy recipes.
Medicinal uses for Lemon balm:
Lemon balm has a long history of use in traditional medicine, and it is valued for its various medicinal properties. Here are some of the potential medicinal uses for lemon balm:
Anxiety and Stress Relief:
Lemon balm is often used to help alleviate symptoms of anxiety and stress. The herb has mild sedative properties that may help calm the nerves and promote relaxation.
Sleep Aid:
Due to its calming effects, lemon balm is sometimes used to improve sleep quality and address mild insomnia. It can be consumed as a tea or taken in supplement form.
Digestive Aid:
Lemon balm has been traditionally used to soothe digestive issues, including indigestion and bloating. It may help relax the muscles of the digestive tract and reduce discomfort.
Cold Sores and Herpes Simplex Virus:
Topical application of lemon balm may help reduce the frequency and duration of cold sores caused by the herpes simplex virus. Some studies suggest that the herb possesses antiviral properties.
Cognitive Function:
There is some evidence to suggest that lemon balm may have positive effects on cognitive function and memory. It is believed to have a mild nootropic effect, potentially improving alertness and mental clarity.
Antioxidant Properties:
Lemon balm contains antioxidants, including rosmarinic acid, which may help protect cells from oxidative stress and inflammation. Antioxidants are important for overall health and may contribute to disease prevention.
Anti-Inflammatory Effects:
Some studies indicate that lemon balm may have anti-inflammatory properties, which could be beneficial for conditions involving inflammation.
Menstrual Discomfort:
Lemon balm may be used to alleviate symptoms associated with menstrual discomfort, such as cramps and irritability.
Thyroid Health:
There is some research suggesting that lemon balm may have a mild impact on thyroid function, potentially helping to regulate an overactive thyroid (hyperthyroidism). However, more research is needed in this area.
Respiratory Health:
Lemon balm's soothing properties extend to the respiratory system, making it a potential remedy for symptoms of colds, allergies, and other respiratory conditions.
It's important to note that while lemon balm is generally considered safe when used in moderation, it can interact with certain medications. Individuals with pre-existing medical conditions or those taking medications should consult with a healthcare professional before incorporating lemon balm into their health regimen. Additionally, pregnant and breastfeeding women should exercise caution and seek medical advice before using herbal remedies.