Lemon Mint Seeds

Approx 30 seeds in the pack

Lemon Mint, also known as Lemon Balm, is a delightful herb renowned for its refreshing citrus scent and flavor. Here’s a comprehensive guide to grow and care for Lemon Mint from seeds:

Description:

Lemon Mint (Melissa officinalis) is a perennial herb belonging to the mint family, Lamiaceae. It features bright green, oval-shaped leaves with serrated edges and emits a strong lemon fragrance when crushed. In summer, it produces small white flowers that attract pollinators like bees and butterflies.

Sowing Season:

Sow Lemon Mint seeds indoors 6-8 weeks before the last frost date in spring or directly sow them outdoors after the danger of frost has passed.

Soil:

Plant Lemon Mint in well-draining, fertile soil with a pH range of 6.0 to 7.5. It thrives in moist, loamy soil enriched with organic matter.

Watering:

Keep the soil consistently moist but not waterlogged. Water when the top inch of soil feels dry, especially during hot weather.

Fertilizer:

Lemon Mint is not heavy feeder, but you can apply a balanced organic fertilizer once a month during the growing season to encourage healthy growth.

Care:

– Sunlight: Lemon Mint thrives in full sun to partial shade. Provide at least 6 hours of sunlight daily.
– Pruning: Regularly prune Lemon Mint to encourage bushier growth and prevent it from becoming leggy. Pinch off the tips of the stems to promote branching.
– Pests and Diseases: Lemon Mint is generally resistant to pests and diseases. However, keep an eye out for aphids, spider mites, and powdery mildew, and treat them promptly if detected.

Harvest:

You can start harvesting Lemon Mint leaves once the plant reaches 6-8 inches in height. Snip off the leaves as needed, leaving some foliage on the plant to continue growing. For the best flavor, harvest in the morning when the oils are most concentrated.

Medicinal Purposes and Uses:

– Calming Properties: Lemon Mint has been used for centuries to promote relaxation and reduce stress. Brewed into a tea, it can help calm the mind and soothe nerves.
– Digestive Aid: Lemon Mint tea is also known for its digestive benefits, helping to relieve indigestion, bloating, and gas.
– Antimicrobial Effects: The essential oils in Lemon Mint possess antimicrobial properties, making it useful for treating minor wounds and soothing skin irritations.
– Culinary Uses: Add fresh Lemon Mint leaves to salads, fruit salads, cocktails, and desserts for a refreshing citrus flavor. It also pairs well with fish, chicken, and lamb dishes.
– Aromatherapy: Crushed Lemon Mint leaves release a pleasant lemon scent, making them ideal for use in potpourri, sachets, and homemade air fresheners.

By following these growing instructions and incorporating Lemon Mint into your garden and kitchen, you’ll enjoy its aromatic foliage and versatile uses throughout the year.