Lemon Balm – MIg

Description

Lemon Balm is a fragrant heirloom herb prized for its bright green leaves and refreshing lemon scent. Its mild citrus flavor makes it a popular choice for herbal teas, salads, desserts, beverages, and traditional herbal remedies. This easy-to-grow perennial also attracts bees and other beneficial pollinators, making it an excellent addition to herb gardens. It performs exceptionally well during the UAE’s cool growing season.

When to Plant in the UAE

• Indoors: Start seeds indoors in August.
• Outdoors: Transplant seedlings or direct sow from October through December, when temperatures are mild.

Planting & Care Tips

• Light & Soil: Grow in full sun to partial shade in fertile, well-draining soil enriched with compost.
• Depth & Germination: Sow seeds 0.2–0.5 cm deep or lightly press them onto the soil surface. Germination typically occurs within 7–14 days.
• Spacing: Space plants 30–45 cm apart, with 45–60 cm between rows.
• Watering: Keep the soil consistently moist during establishment, then water regularly while allowing the top layer of soil to dry slightly between waterings.
• Feeding: Apply compost before planting. Feed lightly with a balanced fertilizer every 4–6 weeks during active growth.
• Harvest: Begin harvesting leaves approximately 60–80 days after sowing. Regular harvesting encourages fresh, bushy growth.
• Harvesting Tips: Harvest stems just above a leaf node using clean scissors. For the best flavor and aroma, harvest in the morning after the dew has dried.