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LEMON BALM (Melissa officinalis) - 6" Pot - 3 for $20 or Each at - $8 (Sequim)
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LEMON BALM (Melissa officinalis)
TYPE: Perennial herb; mint family
SIZE: 18–30 in tall; 18–24 in spread
FOLIAGE: Crinkled green leaves; strong lemon scent
FLOWERS: Small pale yellow/white; early–mid summer
HARDINESS: Zones 4–9; fully hardy in your microclimate
WILDLIFE: High‑value bee plant
LIGHT: Full sun–part shade; best flavor in full sun
SOIL: Moist, fertile, well‑drained; tolerates clay if amended
MOISTURE: Moderate, consistent; drought reduces leaf quality
AIRFLOW: Needed to prevent powdery mildew
SEASON:
Spring—fast growth
Summer—blooms; foliage may tire in heat
Fall—slows
Winter—dormant
MAINTENANCE:
Cut back mid‑season to refresh; deadhead to reduce seeding; divide every 2–3 yrs; light mulch; harvest pre‑bloom for best oils
SPREAD:
Self‑seeds readily; rhizomes expand but not aggressive like true mint
PESTS:
Generally clean; occasional mildew; deer‑resistant
USES:
Pollinator edges; herb gardens; tea; fragrance corridors; sensory beds
In Carlsborg within 3/4 mi of Hiway 101
Plant