Does Lemon Balm Spread?

Lemon balm does not spread by underground runners like mint. It will increase in size, though, making a bigger clump in the garden each season and sprouting from seeds that develop from inconspicuous flowers.

Does lemon balm take over?

If not carefully controlled, lemon balm can quickly become invasive in the garden. Often, people mistakenly think that lemon balm is invasive due to its roots, like its cousins peppermint and spearmint, but in fact it’s the seeds of the lemon balm plant that cause this herb to suddenly take over a garden.

Will lemon balm grow back after cutting?

Winter growing: Cut back lemon balm in fall leaving just 2 inches of stem. The plant may freeze back to the ground in winter but will re-grow from underground roots and renew itself in spring.

Does lemon balm grow quickly?

Lemon Balm is an Excellent Permaculture Plant
The brassicas in your life will thank you, as lemon balm makes the perfect companion plant. Keep in mind that like mint, lemon balm grows incredibly fast in rich, well drained, moist soil that receives lots of sun. In the right conditions, it can even become massive.

How big does a lemon balm get?

Traditional lemon balm is a vigorous plant that eventually makes a large leafy clump, and sends up flower stems that can reach 80cm (32in) tall. There are several cultivars too, with variegated leaves or a more compact form.

What does lemon balm attract?

When lemon balm flowers, it brings in bees and butterflies and other beneficial pollinators. (Check out other plants I recommend to attract pollinators here.)

Does lemon balm plant repel mosquitoes?

Lemon Balm
The lemon scent, which repels the bugs, is powerful. It rubs off very well onto the skin. Lemon balm repels mosquitoes and gnats.

Is lemon balm toxic to dogs?

Lemon balm, known scientifically as Melissa officinalis, is a non-toxic herb that can be used on dogs, cats, and even horses. As a supplement for your dog, lemon balm has many benefits that may help with several different conditions.

How do you control lemon balm?

The most effective way to keep lemon balm in bounds is to prevent the plant from going to seed. One way to accomplish this is to shear the plant two or three times every year so it doesn’t bloom. Don’t worry; cutting the plant back won’t hurt it.

How do you multiply lemon balm?

A more reliable method to propagate lemon balm is by layering. Select a 6 to 12 inch long, low-growing flexible stem and make a small cut on the underside of the stem. Stake the stem to the ground and cover it with 2-3 inches of soil. Roots will grow from the stem near the cut in 1 to 2 months.

Should I plant lemon balm in my garden?

Regular harvest will help contain its growth. Use lemon balm fresh, or dry for storage. Lemon balm propagates easily, is a lowmaintenance plant, and will make a nice addition to your home garden.

Where should I plant my lemon balm?

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.

Does lemon balm repel ants?

Lemon Balm
This member of the mint family emits a clean lemon scent. Mosquitoes don’t like it. Neither do flies and ants.

Is lemon balm still good after it flowers?

Cutting back hard after flowering will produce a fresh flush of leaves. Lemon balm can also be propagated by dividing old clumps in spring or early fall, or from cuttings. Replace the plants (if they have lived) after 3-4 seasons, as they generally decline at this time.

What plants go with lemon balm?

Most herbs, fruits and vegetables make great lemon balm companions, including the following:

• Winter and summer squash.
• Melons.
• Tomatoes.
• All members of the cabbage family (kale, broccoli, Brussels sprouts, cauliflower, etc.)
• Apples.
• Kiwi.
• Onions.
• Fennel.

What grows well with lemon balm?

Companion Plants for Lemon Balm
Companion plants include dill, basil, squash, broccoli, cabbage family, cauliflower, hollyhocks, melons, angelica, nasturtiums, squash, tomatoes. Its beautiful flowers attract beneficial pollinators, and the leaf’s strong aroma deter pests such as cabbage moths, mosquitoes, and gnats.

What can you not plant next to lemon balm?

Good companion plants and what not to plant next to lemon balm. Lemon balm is compatible with almost all perennial herbs, such as thyme and mint. Good companion plants should have the same site requirements. It is not recommended to grow alongside wormwood and annual herbs, especially basil.

Why should I plant lemon balm?

Not only does it smell wonderful, attract beneficial bees, and repel mosquitos, but it has been used medicinally since antiquity to treat a variety of ailments. Lemon balm contains the powerful antioxidants ferulic acid, caffeic acid, rosmarinic acid, and quercetin.

Can lemon balm be used as a ground cover?

The leaves feature a light lemony scent and flavor, which also makes it prized as a culinary herb. You can grow lemon balm as an edible and low-maintenance ground cover instead of grass in small areas of the yard if you sow it heavily and keep it well trimmed.

Does lemon balm repel spiders?

Lemon Balm
It has a strong smell, one you’ll enjoy, but two particular pests don’t like it: spiders and fruit flies. This can create an absence of not only spiders but one of their prey, removing an incentive for them being indoors anyways. It’s easy to grow.

Does lemon balm repel fleas?

3. Lemon Balm to Repel Fleas (Melissa officinalis) Lemon Balm has a rich, citrusy scent that most people love and most insects hate. This plant is a good repellent for mosquitos, and can make a great extract for a bug spray.