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Lemon Balm

Lemon Balm

Balm, Melissa, Sweet Balm, Common Balm

Hardy perennial for zones 3–9 that self-seeds prolifically — deadhead flowers to prevent spreading. Thrives in partial shade; tolerates poor soil. Cut back hard in midsummer to refresh growth and prevent woodiness. Highly attractive to bees — excellent pollinator plant. Harvest young leaves for best lemon flavor; older leaves become more medicinal.

Light

Partial sun

Water

Medium water

Temperature

-20–30 °C

Frost tolerance

Frost-hardy — tolerates frost

Days to maturity

60–80 days

Ideal soil pH

7–7.5

Companion plants
TomatoSquashVegetables
Watch for pests
AphidsSpider MiteWhitefly
Disease risk
Powdery MildewLeaf SpotRoot Rot

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