Balm, Lemon, 'Mandarina'

Germination

Sow indoors year round. Sow outdoors May-Aug. Surface sow onto moist well-drained seed compost. Just cover with a sprinkling of soil or vermiculite. Light is needed for germination. Ideal temp. 20°C. Germination takes 12-21 days. Keep soil moist at all times. Transplant when the seedling has it first set of true leaves to 8cm pots. Can be grown on a windowsill or planted out after danger of frost has passed with 40cm spacing.

Growing

Prefers any moist but well-drained soil in full sun or partial shade. Protect from excessive winter wet if planted outside. Indoor plants will require plenty of water. If the plant becomes leggy it requires more sun.

Cultivation

Cut back hard after flowering to promote fresh leaf growth and to prevent self-seeding. Will self-seed freely if not deadheaded and can become invasive. Harvest leaves by cutting or pinching off. Best harvested in the afternoon when the flavour is most aromatic. Handle carefully as the leaves bruise easily.