Lemon balm is a total favorite for home gardeners, and for good reason! Not only does it have that incredible, refreshing citrus scent, but it’s also packed with natural healing properties. It’s no surprise this herb is a staple in so many backyards. If you’re looking to add some to your collection, here’s the lowdown on how to get those seeds started.
Sowing Directly in the Garden
The best time to head out and sow your lemon balm is around mid-May. While planting directly into your garden bed saves you a few steps, it does come with a few risks for the little guys. Keep in mind that usually only about half of the seeds you scatter will actually sprout.
If you want to give it a go, try soaking your seeds in water for a full day first to help them wake up. Pro tip: mix the seeds with a little bit of sand to make them easier to spread evenly. Pick out a great spot and prep the soil by loosening it up. Since lemon balm seeds need light to germinate, only press them about half an inch into the dirt—don’t bury them deep! Mist them with water and cover the area with some clear plastic wrap to keep the moisture in.
You should see some action in about two to four weeks. Just make sure to keep the soil consistently moist and stay on top of weeding. Since only about half the seeds will likely sprout, you won’t really need to worry about thinning them out later.
Starting Seeds Indoors
If you want a head start, you can begin sowing on your windowsill as early as mid-March. This gives the young plants a chance to get nice and sturdy before transplanting them into the garden. Fill a seed tray with some high-quality starter mix and dampen it. Just like with the outdoor method, soak your seeds beforehand and press them into the soil without burying them too deep—they need that light! A partially sunny windowsill with temperatures between 70°F and 75°F is the sweet spot.
Once you’ve got them set up, here’s what to keep an eye on:
- You should see the first sprouts popping up in one to two weeks.
- Once they appear, you can gradually lower the temperature.
- About 60°F to 65°F is perfect at this stage.
- When your seedlings hit about two inches tall, it’s time to move them into their own individual pots.
