Product Review

Melissa odorata, or Lemon Balm, is a wonderfully aromatic herb that is widely used in herbal tea. It is a perennial that reaches 12 - 32 inches in height and 12 - 18 inches in width. The chopped leaves are good in salads and soups. The leaves also dry well and can be used in potpourri. The yellow flowers form in early summer, but they are fairly insignificant although hummingbirds and bees certainly like them. Both the flowers and the pretty foliage are highly scented. Leaves can be picked at any time. Lemon Balm can also be grown indoors in a sunny window. Start Lemon Balm directly outdoors after danger of frost has passed. Press the seed into the soil, do not cover it and keep it moist. With a temperature of 65 - 75F, germination is usually in 21 days. Lemon Balm prefers partial shade and moist, well-drained soil. Measure rows of seed 18 - 24 inches apart and thin seedlings to 12 inches.