Lemon Balm

Common Name: Lemon Balm  

Scientific Name: Melissa officinalis

USDA Hardiness Zones: 4 to 9

Approximate number of seeds per gram (ounce) : 1,400 (40,000)

Sun: full sun to partial shade

Water: keep soil moderately moist during germination

Soil: surface sow in well-drained soil

Temperature: 18 to 24 degrees Celsius (65 to 75 degrees Fahrenheit)

Spacing: 12 inch spacing between plants in rows about 12 inches apart

Germination Time: 14 to 21 days

Lemon Balm's lemon scented leaves have a variety of uses salads and soups and they can even be used to make a lemon scented tea.  Surface sowing is best given the small size of the seeds.  Although lemon balm will grow in full sun conditions, it does best in partial shade.