HERB OF THE MONTH - Lemon Balm

Name: 
Lemon Balm
Melissa officinalis

How many plants for average family:
1 plant per family

Type of plant:
Evergreen low to medium spreading plant

Best Varieties:
Melissa officinalis is the common green variety
'Aurea' is a variegated variety with striped leaves.
Lemon Balm also comes in a yellow variety too.
Cuttings are also successful.

Sowing:
Sow seeds in spring or divide large clumps in spring or fall.

Growing Habit:
Evergreen low to medium spreading plant to about 3ft high

Growing Conditions:
Lemon balm grows happily in reasonably fertile soil with a little protection from hot afternoon sun. 
Plant in slightly alkaline soil and keep soil moist with a thick layer of mulch.
Regular liquid feeding can increase growth.  new plants can be sensitive to frost.

Problems:
Frost sensitive.
Dry conditions can destroy the plant.
Rust.
Powdery mildew.
Red Spider mite.

Uses:
Lemon Balm is great in the garden for attracting bees, so plant it near vegetables and fruit trees.

The leaves and flowers can be used in salads for a fresh zesty lemon flavour.

Lemo Balm is commonly drunk as a tea.  This can be a refreshing iced tea or hot tea used for relieving symptoms
of depression, menstral cramps or to encourage sleep if drunk before bedtime.