Mandarina Lemon Balm

Mandarina Lemon Balm has a fruity, orange scent that is a must have in your herb garden. Lemon balm is known for its calming effect when used in warm or cold teas. Can be planted in containers or directly in the garden. Has a lower, more spreading growth habit than traditional lemon balm. Flowers attract bees. Grows to 18-24". Zones 4-9. 25 seeds   PLANTING Melissa officinalis Perennial, Zones 4-9 Germination: 7-21 days Germination Temperature: Optimum soil temperatures 65-75ºF Seed Planting Depth: Sow on the surface, seeds need light to germinate Starting Indoors:  Start indoors 6-8 weeks before the last frost. Provide 65-75ºF soil temperature for germination. Transplant 12-18” apart after the last frost.  Sowing Outdoors: Direct sow 2 weeks before the last frost or in autumn. Sow a few seeds every 6-8" apart, thin to the most robust seedling, 12-18” apart, or sow seeds close together in a row and when thinning out the seedlings transplant them to other places in the garden.  Growth Habit: Upright, compact, trailing, spreading  Height and Width: 18-24” x 24-36”   Spacing: 12-18” apart Light Needs: Full sun, part shade in hot climates Soil Needs: Average to fertile, well-drained.  Approximate days to harvest: 65-70 days or earlier, when the plant has grown large enough, harvest the leaves before the plant blooms. Uses: Medicinal, culinary, ornamental, deer resistant, ideal for containers and small spaces, attracts bees and beneficals