Lemon balm attracts butterflies, bees, and birds and can become invasive if not controlled. It has a strong lemon fragrance and is often used similarly to lemongrass, which can help repel unwanted insects.
Start your seeds about 6 weeks before the last frost in your region. Water them gently with a spray bottle. You can transplant them outdoors when all risk of frost is eliminated, and the plant is large enough to handle.
Lemon balm prefers well-drained or sandy soil and partial shade, but it can also grow in full sun and tolerate drought conditions when mature. For healthy growth, do not cut more than half of the plant at once.
