Melissa officinalis (Lemon Balm)

Seed Treatment: • Cold stratification recommend: Mix seeds with moist sand or paper towel, place in a sealed bag, and refrigerate at 35–40°F (1–4°C) for 7–10 days • Optional: Soak seeds in warm water for a few hours before sowing (not required but may help soften seed coat) When to Sow: • Indoors: Start seeds 6–8 weeks before the last frost • Outdoors: Sow directly after the last frost in spring or fall sow for natural stratification Sowing Instructions: • Surface sow — do not cover; seeds need light to germinate • Press gently into moist soil • Ideal soil temperature: 65–70°F (18–21°C) • Germinates in 10–20 days Light Requirements: • Grows best in full sun to partial shade • In hot climates, provide afternoon shade to prevent wilting Soil Requirements: • Prefers well-draining, loamy soil enriched with compost • Tolerates average soils • pH range: 6.0–7.5 Watering: • Keep soil evenly moist during germination • Once established, water moderately — drought-tolerant but prefers some moisture Spacing: • Thin or transplant seedlings to 12–18 inches (30–45 cm) apart Growing Tips: • A highly aromatic herb with lemon-scented foliage • Used in teas, tinctures, culinary dishes, and natural remedies • Attracts bees and pollinators • Cut back midseason to encourage bushier growth • Grows as a perennial in USDA Zones 4–9 • Can self-seed — deadhead if you want to control spreading