When it comes to planting lemon balm, the ideal time is during early spring to early summer. This is the period when the weather starts to warm up, and the risk of frost has passed. It is important to choose a time when the soil has thawed and is workable.
If you prefer starting lemon balm from seeds, you can do so in late winter. Starting them indoors allows you to give them a head start before transplanting them outdoors. Once the seedlings have grown and the danger of frost has passed, you can then transplant them into your garden.
In my personal experience, I have found that starting lemon balm from seeds indoors can be a successful method. I usually sow the seeds in small pots or trays filled with seed starting mix. I make sure to keep the soil consistently moist and provide adequate light for the seedlings to grow. Once the seedlings have developed a good root system and have a few sets of leaves, I transplant them into larger pots or directly into the garden.
When transplanting lemon balm seedlings into the garden, it’s important to choose a location that receives at least six hours of sunlight per day. Lemon balm prefers well-drained soil with a pH level between 6.0 and 7.5. Before planting, I prepare the soil by loosening it and incorporating organic matter such as compost or well-rotted manure.
To transplant the seedlings, I dig a hole slightly larger than the root ball of the plant. I gently remove the seedling from its container, being careful not to damage the roots. I place the seedling into the hole, making sure it is at the same depth it was in the container. Then, I backfill the hole with soil, firming it gently around the base of the plant. Finally, I water the newly transplanted lemon balm thoroughly to help settle the soil and reduce transplant shock.
It is worth noting that lemon balm has a tendency to spread and can become invasive if not properly managed. Therefore, it is a good idea to plant it in a container or use barriers to prevent it from taking over your garden. Regular pruning can also help keep lemon balm in check and encourage bushier growth.
The best time to plant lemon balm is during early spring to early summer when the weather has warmed up and the risk of frost has passed. Starting from seeds indoors in late winter can also be a successful method. Remember to choose a sunny location with well-drained soil, and take steps to prevent its invasive growth. Happy gardening!
