How to Grow Balm Lemon


How to Grow Balm Lemon

Balm Lemon, also called Lemon Balm or just plain Balm, is an easy to grow herb. As it’s name suggests, it gives off a lemony scent in the herb garden. The edible leaves have a lemony flavor, too. Native to Asia and the Mediterranean region, Balm Lemon will feel right at home in full sun, or a lightly shaded area of your garden. Place it near your kitchen window, where its lemony scent can waft into your kitchen on a gentle breeze.
Balm Lemon plants grow from two to twenty-two feet tall. Most home garden varieties grow 2′-3′ tall. Balm Lemon plants are very aggressive, and grow like weeds. We recommend containing them with a border edging around the plants, dug about 6-8 inches below the soil.
Bees are attracted to the flowers.

Propagation: 

Balm Lemon is grown from seed. We recommend an early indoor start. If planted outdoors, the tiny seeds can easily wash out of the soil in a spring rain.
Balm Lemon is commonly grown by division of the roots. Left unattended, this aggressive plant will do just fine, rapidly spreading its roots into other areas of the garden or lawn. It can also be propagated by cuttings.

How to Grow Balm Lemon:

Balm Lemon is very easy to grow. It prefers full sun to light shade, and a moist, slightly rich soil. They also do well in average soils.
Space seedlings or thin plants to 24″ apart, in rows two feet apart. They will quickly grow and spread, if allowed. They will tolerate a little crowding.
Balm Lemon prefers moist soil. Water them during dry periods, at least once a week.
Add a general purpose fertilizer once a month.
Flowers will go to seed quickly. Aggressively cut back plants to keep lush, new growth.
Harvest leaves when young and tender.

To preserve leaves, dry them immediately. Then, put them into a sealed container so they do not lose their flavor.
Main Culinary Uses: Try Balm Lemon to flavor meat sauces, in salads and meat dishes. It can be used to flavor teas and fruit punches.

Info by : http://www.gardenersnet.com/herbs/balmlemon.htm

https://gardener-pro-ok.blogspot.com/2009/02/how-to-grow-balm-lemon.html