John Myers
Once the lemon balm has taken root in the bed, it multiplies independently by means of seeds and runners. In order to settle the herbal plant in a different location, propagation by sowing, division, or cuttings is recommended. That’s how it’s done.
Sow seeds skillfully – they germinate better indoors
In view of their winter hardiness, lemon balm seeds are theoretically suitable for direct sowing. Experience has shown that they are very hesitant to germinate outdoors. We, therefore, recommend sowing on the windowsill, which scores a high success rate of more than 80 percent. How to do it:
- fill small pots with seed soil or peat sand and moisten
- Distribute seeds 3-5 centimeters apart
- do not cover the light germs with the substrate, just press on
At temperatures of 20-25 degrees Celsius in a partially shaded window seat, germination begins after 3-4 weeks. A hood made of plastic foil increases the germination mood of the seeds, only to fall away again after the cotyledons appear. Your pupils will be planted out in the bed from mid-May.
Easy propagation by division
The division is one of the simplest methods of propagation in ornamental and kitchen gardens. In early spring, dig up a vital lemon balm. With a spade or sharp knife, divide the root ball into two or more segments. Each section should have at least 2 shoots. Since these are completely self-sufficient plant parts, they can be planted immediately at the new location.
This is how cuttings turn into magnificent lemon balm plants
In early summer, each branch has the potential for a lemon balm in its own right. The evidence is provided by 10 to 15-centimeter-long shoot tips, which serve as cuttings. It’s so easy:
- defoliate each cutting at the bottom
- plant in a small pot with pricking or herbal soil
- only the upper pair of leaves can be seen
- water and cover with a plastic bag
The cuttings root quickly in a semi-shady place in the garden or on the windowsill. After a few weeks, they are planted in the intended location.
Tips and tricks
Despite the frugality of adult lemon balm, hand-grown young plants prove very thirsty. In the first few weeks and months after planting in beds and tubs, they are watered much more frequently than in later years. Therefore, use the thumb test to check daily whether the substrate surface has dried and should be watered.
