in just a single season.

Lemon balm also has the tendency to bolt if exposed to too much water or not maintained properly.

Once the plant blooms, the flavor of its leaves will change, causing them to taste bitter.

lemon balm plant

The Spruce / Krystal Slagle

Take care to never remove more than about 25 percent of the plant’s mass at any one time.

Light

In both indoor and outdoor environments, lemon balm loves asunny spot.

Place your herb containers near a windowsill that gets ample light throughout the day.

closeup of lemon balm leaves

​The Spruce / Krystal Slagle

Soil

Lemon balm plants prefer a slightly sandy, well-drained soil.

However, most indoor growers won’t see their plants set seeds.

Common Diseases

Lemon balm has no serious pest issues, but can be susceptible topowdery mildew.

closeup of lemon balm

​The Spruce / Krystal Slagle

If powdery mildew does develop, remove the infected leaves, and treat with a mild fungicide.