Why Grow Lemon Balm Indoors?
Lemon balm (Melissa officinalis) is a must-have for indoor gardeners. Why? It smells amazing, adds fresh zest to teas and dishes, and has medicinal properties that help with stress and digestion.
This perennial herb is a member of the mint family and is native to the Mediterranean region and Southern Europe. Growing it indoors means year-round access without worrying about frost, pests, or other environmental factors that might harm outdoor plants.
Best Conditions for Growing Lemon Balm Indoors
Light Requirements
Lemon balm thrives in bright, indirect light. A sunny windowsill facing east or south is ideal.
If natural light is limited, consider using a grow light for 12–16 hours a day. Though lemon balm can tolerate partial shade, placing it in full sun will encourage a fresh flush of leaves with a strong lemony scent.
Temperature and Humidity
Keep temperatures between 65–75°F (18–24°C). Lemon balm isn’t too fussy, but it prefers moderate humidity levels. If your home is dry, misting the plant occasionally can help.
This hardy herb can tolerate colder climates but thrives best in a warm indoor environment.
Soil and Pot Selection
Use a well-drained soil rich in organic matter. A pot with good drainage is essential to prevent root rot. Terracotta or ceramic pots work great as they allow excess moisture to evaporate.
For best results, choose fertile soil with a balance of nutrients, ensuring your lemon balm grows strong and healthy.
How to Plant Lemon Balm Indoors
Growing from Seeds
Growing lemon balm from seeds is an easy and cost-effective method. Start seeds in a small container with moist soil and place them in a warm, bright spot.
Lightly press the seeds into the soil but do not cover them, as they need light to germinate. Expect sprouting in 10–14 days.
Growing from Cuttings
Propagating from cuttings is a faster way to grow lemon balm indoors. Snip a 4–6 inch stem from a mature plant, remove the lower leaves, and place it in water.
Roots should develop within 2–3 weeks, after which the cutting can be transplanted into a larger pot.
Transplanting from Outdoors
If you have an outdoor lemon balm plant, you can bring it inside. Carefully dig it up, keeping the root system intact, and transplant it into a pot with good potting soil.
Keep it in a shaded area for a few days to help it adjust.
Watering and Feeding Lemon Balm
How Often to Water
Lemon balm prefers well-drained soil and does not like sitting in water. Water the plant when the top inch of soil feels dry.
Over-watering can cause root rot, so make sure the pot has good drainage.
Best Fertilizers for Lemon Balm
A balanced, organic fertilizer applied every 4–6 weeks will keep your lemon balm thriving. You can also use compost tea or diluted fish emulsion for natural feeding.
One of my favorite fertilizers to use is FoxFarm’s Big Bloom for vegetative growth.
Pruning and Harvesting
When and How to Prune
Regular pruning encourages bushy growth and prevents legginess. Snip off the top leaves frequently, cutting just above a leaf node to promote new growth.
Best Ways to Harvest
Harvest once your plant reaches about 6 inches tall. Cut stems just above a pair of leaves and use them fresh or dry them for later use. Store dried leaves in an airtight container in a dark place to preserve potency.
Common Pests and Problems
Dealing with Aphids and Spider Mites
Aphids and spider mites can be problematic, but wiping leaves with a damp cloth or spraying neem oil can help. Ensuring good air circulation will also prevent infestations.
Preventing Mold and Mildew
Over-watering and high humidity can lead to powdery mildew. Keep the plant in a well-ventilated area and avoid splashing water on the leaves.
How to Use Lemon Balm
Culinary Uses
Lemon balm, with its subtle citrus undertones, serves as a delightful addition to a variety of dishes. You can incorporate its fresh leaves into salads, soups, and desserts for a refreshing hint of lemony flavor.
Lemon balm can also elevate the taste profile of herbal teas and cocktails, offering a unique and aromatic twist to these beverages. Experiment with this versatile herb to enhance the flavors of your culinary creations.
Medicinal Benefits
Lemon balm is a widely celebrated medicinal herb known for its exceptional calming properties.
One popular way to harness its benefits is by brewing lemon balm tea. Regular consumption of this herbal tea has been linked to various health benefits, including the reduction of anxiety, improvement of sleep quality, and facilitation of digestion.
The soothing properties of lemon balm make it a popular choice for those seeking natural remedies to promote relaxation and overall well-being.
DIY Lemon Balm Products
You can infuse lemon balm into oils for skincare, make it into homemade lip balms, or dry it for use in pot-pourri and herbal sachets.
FAQs
1. Can I grow lemon balm indoors year-round?
Yes! With proper light and care, lemon balm will thrive indoors no matter the season.
2. Does lemon balm need direct sunlight?
Not necessarily. Bright, indirect sunlight is best, though it can tolerate some direct sunlight.
3. How do I prevent my lemon balm from getting leggy?
Regular pruning and ensuring it gets enough light will keep it bushy and full.
4. Can I grow lemon balm indoors without soil?
Yes, hydroponic systems or simply growing cuttings in water can work, but soil generally provides better long-term results.
5. Is lemon balm safe for pets?
Lemon balm is non-toxic to dogs and cats, but always check with a vet before introducing new plants to your pet’s environment.
Conclusion
Growing lemon balm indoors is a great idea for any herb garden. With the right conditions—bright green leaves, well-drained soil, and regular pruning—you’ll have a fresh supply of this aromatic herb year-round.
Whether for culinary uses, medicinal use, or creating your own herbal tea, lemon balm is an excellent choice for indoor plants.
Let me know how you use this incredible herb in your own life!
Until next time,
Disclaimer
The materials and the information contained on the TriGardening Blog are provided for general and educational purposes only and do not constitute any legal, medical or other professional advice on any subject matter. None of the information on our blog is a substitute for a diagnosis and treatment by your health professional. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health providers prior to starting any new diet or treatment and with questions you may have regarding a medical condition.
This article may contain affiliate links. If you purchase a product through one of them, we will receive a commission (at no additional cost to you). We only ever endorse products that we have used and benefited from personally. Thank you for your support!
Sources
Mathews IM, Eastwood J, Lamport DJ, Cozannet RL, Fanca-Berthon P, Williams CM. Clinical Efficacy and Tolerability of Lemon Balm (Melissa officinalis L.) in Psychological Well-Being: A Review. Nutrients. 2024 Oct 18;16(20):3545. doi: 10.3390/nu16203545. PMID: 39458539; PMCID: PMC11510126.