🌱 Lemon Balm

Sowing window (UK)	March to May
Minimum soil temperature	7°C at seed depth
Spacing	30 cm apart
Days to germination	21 days
Days to harvest	70 days
Sowing method	Direct sow outdoors
Frost hardy	Yes
Sun	partial-shade
Watering	moderate
Plant family	Lamiaceae

When should I sow Lemon Balm in the UK?

In the UK, sow Lemon Balm from March to May. It is normally sown direct outdoors. Wait until the soil has reached 7°C at seed depth rather than going by the calendar - lemon balm will sit and rot in cold ground.

What soil temperature does Lemon Balm need to germinate?

Lemon Balm needs a minimum soil temperature of 7°C at seed depth to germinate reliably. Below that, germination is slow and patchy, and seed is more likely to rot than sprout. Measure at around 5cm down, in the morning, rather than trusting air temperature.

How deep and how far apart should I sow Lemon Balm?

For Lemon Balm, space plants 30cm apart.

How long does Lemon Balm take to grow?

Lemon Balm takes roughly 70 days from sowing to harvest. Seed usually germinates in about 21 days.

Is Lemon Balm frost hardy?

Yes. Lemon Balm is frost hardy and will stand through UK frosts, so it can be left out over winter in most of the country.

Sowing data cross-checked against RHS growing guides and UK seed-merchant catalogues. Soil temperatures are the minimum for reliable germination, measured at seed depth.