In both indoor and outdoor environments, lemon balm loves a sunny spot. However, unlike an outdoor lemon balm plant—which can tolerate a bit of shade—those planted indoors need ample sunlight, at least five to six hours a day . Place your herb containers near a windowsill that gets ample light throughout the day.
Will lemon balm grow in shade?
Lemon balm (Melissa officinalis) is easy to grow, even in the shade . ... Lemon balm is a prolific, heavily flavored herb that grows in sun or shade. The leaves, stems, and small yellow flowers can all be used to make teas, but the leaves are the most flavorful.
Does lemon balm like sun or shade?
Many herbs do well in the sun, but lemon balm needs shade . Especially in areas in which the summer sun is hot, this plant grows best with some shade in the afternoon or in a spot where there are tall trees to lessen the intensity of the sun.
How do you take care of lemon balm?
The plants aren't picky about where they grow and will grow in almost any soil, but they prefer rich, well drained soil. Lemon balm plants will grow in part shade to full sun, but flourish best in full sun. It isn't recommended that you fertilize lemon balm , as this can cause the strength of its scent to be reduced.
Why is my lemon balm dying?
Lemon balm leaves turn brown when the plant can't take up enough water to keep the leaves hydrated. The thirsty tissues become scorched from lack of moisture. ... Lack of moisture in leaves can be due to under-watering, but intense sun and temperature extremes, both hot and cold, can cause it, too.
Should you let lemon balm flower?
The lemon balm plant (Melissa officinalis) is actually a member of the mint family and is a perennial herb. It grows as a bushy, leafy herb with a pleasant lemon smell and small white flowers. ... Removing the flowers of the plant as soon as they appear will make your lemon balm far less invasive.
Does lemon balm repel mosquitoes?
Lemon Balm contains high levels of a compound called citronellal, which gives it its lemony aroma and flavor that bugs find so unpleasant. ... The lemon scent, which repels the bugs, is powerful. It rubs off very well onto the skin. Lemon balm repels mosquitoes and gnats .
How often should you water lemon balm?
Water deeply enough to saturate the roots, and then allow the top of the soil to dry slightly before watering again, as soggy soil may cause the plant to rot. Lemon balm in containers may require water every day , especially during hot, dry weather.
Is lemon balm bad for thyroid?
Thyroid disease: Don't use lemon balm . There is a concern that lemon balm may change thyroid function, reduce thyroid hormone levels, and interfere with thyroid hormone-replacement therapy.
Can you put lemon balm in water?
This subtly flavored water is so refreshing on a hot summer day! To make lemon balm water: Fill a jar with fresh lemon balm leaves and a thinly sliced lemon . Pour in cold water until it reaches the top.
Why does my lemon balm have black spots?
Septoria leaf spot , a fungus that can infect lemon balm, causes dark brown or black 1-2mm angular leaf spots. ... Drip irrigating or “watering early in the day” can help prevent diseases that affect damp leaves (24).
What is wrong with lemon balm?
Side effects are generally mild and may include increased appetite, nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain, dizziness, and wheezing . Not enough is known about the safety of lemon balm when used long-term. When applied to the skin: Lemon balm is POSSIBLY SAFE for adults in medicinal amounts. It may cause skin irritation.
Is lemon balm poisonous?
Lemon balm, known scientifically as Melissa officinalis, is a non-toxic herb that can be used on dogs, cats, and even horses.
Does lemon balm attract bees?
BEE BALM and Lemon balm are two distinct herbs, alike in many ways. Both belong to Labiatae, the mint family. Both herbs are hardy perennials, easy to grow, attract bees , yet repel pests.
Can you plant lemon balm and lavender together?
All plants can benefit from lavender, especially chamomile, lettuce, brassicas, onions, tomatoes, oregano, thyme, marjoram, sage, rosemary, basil, lemon balm, squash, olive and fruit trees.
Will lemon balm keep wasps away?
Lemon balm has a sweet fresh fruity scent which is terrific if you are having a yard get-together. It invites that freshness into your home. The smell, however, is not pleasant to wasps and hornets . You can plant a few in your yard as they love sunlight and, it also helps to keep off stinging insects.
