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Balm, Lemon 
Melissa officinalis
Lemon balm can be grown by anyone, gardener or not, in highly varied conditions. It is so easy to grow because it is very hardy, can take small amounts of water, and spreads easily. In fact, it is advisable to grow it in pots unless it is separate from the rest of the garden (or unless you are a very dedicated gardener who enjoys cutting back) because it tends to be invasive. Growing it is very rewarding, though, because of its delightful lemon scent and flavor. It will add a tangy zest to any dish that is complementary to the flavor of lemon, whether it is fruit salad, fish, salad dressing, or meat marinade. Lemon balm is also delicious in iced tea. Interesting Notes
A traditional European medicinal herb, it has been used to treat all kinds of ailments including insomnia, cramps, headache and toothache. Balm, Lemon Growing Tips
Easy to grow. Seeds need light to germinate. Confine to a small space. Lemon balm prefers to grow in full sun but will grow successfully in partial shade. Well-drained, fertile soil is best, but will tolerate poor, dry soils as well. In the first year, two cuttings are possible. Best to use fresh, as the leaves turn brown and lose much of their scent when dried. Harvest before flowering for optimum fragrance. To harvest, cut off the entire plant about two inches above the ground, careful not to bruise the foliage. Dry within two days of picking as it has a tendency to turn brown quickly. Lay flat on screens or sieves and lay in the shade when temperatures are near 90 degrees F. If you plan on using it for making teas, you can dry both the leaves and the stems. Sowing Information Indoors - sow in flats 6-8 weeks before the last frost. 7-14 days to germination. Tamp the seeds lightly into the soil-starting medium and mist lightly. Transplant to individual pots when the seedlings have 4 true leaves. After the last frost, transplant to garden giving the plants 12" spacing. 70 days to harvest. Outdoors - direct seed in the spring of early fall, sowing about one seed per inch. Tamp the seeds lightly into the soil and keep moist until germination occurs. No need to thin, but can thin to stand up to 12" apart, in rows 2 feet apart. Mulch if winter goes below 0 degrees F. Plants can also be grown from cuttings taken in the spring or summer months. Other methods include - layering or by division in the spring.
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Characteristics & Attributes for Melissa officinalis
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