To really get the most out of lemon balm’s amazing benefits, a little TLC goes a long way. Like most herbs, getting the watering right is the secret to a happy, fragrant plant. Here’s the lowdown on how to keep yours hydrated and thriving.
How much water does it actually need?
The amount of water your lemon balm craves mostly depends on how old it is. If you’re starting with young plants, follow these simple steps:
- Give young plants a drink on a regular basis.
- Let the soil dry out slightly between waterings.
- Always do a quick finger test to see if the soil is still damp before adding more.
For established lemon balm in the garden, mother nature usually does the heavy lifting with natural rainfall. However, during those scorching summer heatwaves, you’ll want to step in with the watering can. Pro tip: water early in the morning or late in the evening to avoid the midday sun.
What about potted lemon balm?
Growing lemon balm in a pot is a bit different than growing it in a garden bed. In a container, roots are limited by space and can’t “stretch out” to find moisture deep in the ground. Because of this, even older plants in pots need regular watering.
There’s no “one size fits all” schedule, but a good rule of thumb is to water whenever the top two inches of soil feel dry to the touch. Keep in mind that outdoor temperatures will play a big role in how thirsty your plant gets. This applies to lemon balm kept as an indoor plant, too! Just remember to scale back the watering a bit during the winter months.
Quick Tip: How to use your harvest
You probably already know that lemon balm is edible and incredibly versatile in the kitchen. It’s a fantastic addition to both sweet desserts and savory dishes. But it’s also a world-class thirst quencher! Try steeping a teaspoon of dried lemon balm in a quart of water for a delicious, soothing tea. It’s great served hot in the winter or iced for a refreshing summer treat.