Lemon balm from our own cultivation scores with a unique aroma. The essential oils and other components responsible for this unfold to perfection at a very specific point in time. We will tell you here when that is and how you can skilfully harvest lemon balm.

The best time to harvest is just before flowering

Lemon balm planted in May will start flowering in June. In the days before the white flowers unfold, the aroma content in the foliage is at its highest. During and after flowering, the flavor decreases significantly as the plant is now concentrating on growing the seed pods. At the appointment itself, the time of day comes into focus:

  • Harvest lemon balm early in the morning after the dew has evaporated
  • ideally it has rained 2 days before or the plant has been watered
  • Use sharp scissors to cut off the branches about 10 centimeters above the ground

The lemon herb will sprout again vigorously from the remaining shoot. A carefully tended plant will perform this feat up to 4 times per season before going into winter break.

Store surplus crops cleverly - this is how it works

If the harvest exceeds all expectations, the question of suitable storage arises. There are divergent methods of preservation to choose from, which score with individual advantages. We have compiled an overview of the most important procedures below:

  • Freeze lemon balm leaves individually
  • freeze in the ice cube tray
  • dry in the oven
  • air dry
  • dry in the dehydrator
  • pickle in wine or apple cider vinegar

Experts agree that freezing preserves the greatest amount of flavor. If you prefer to use lemon balm as a medicinal herb, the dry method can be considered. The essential oils evaporate, but the healing powers remain intact when dried.

tips and tricks

Another aromatic and medicinal plant is known under the name bee balm. Although this is also a mint family, this is assigned to a different genus. If you want to cultivate both types of lemon balm in the garden, assign them to different locations. Lemon balm and bee balm do not get along as neighbors.

Category:

Vegetable garden