Lemon balm (Melissa officinalis) need a warm, humid environment to germinate. Plant the seeds during Autumn. The seeds should germinate in about 5-9 days. Once the seedlings have developed their second set of true leaves, they can be transplanted outdoors. Choose a sunny spot with well-drained soil. Space the plants 25 – 30cm apart. Lemon balm plants need regular water, especially during the first year of growth.

The leaves can be used to make tea, which has a calming and relaxing effect, to flavour food and drinks and to make essential oil, which has a variety of medicinal and cosmetic uses. The plant can be used as an ornamental plant in gardens and borders can be used to repel insects. Lemon Balm is part of the mint family and considered to be a calming herb.