Herb Variety

Lemon Balm

What do you do when you can’t add natural lemon flavoring to dishes or tea? One option is to grow and dry Lemon Balm for its flavor. This perennial grows best in zones 5 through 10 and should be added in spring after the last frost. Other growing conditions include finding an area with full sun to some shade and keeping well-drained soil. These plants can get to be 20 to 24 inches tall and should be added every 18 inches to your garden.

Lemon flavor is good for a marinade and dressing. Here’s our recipe for a lemon balm dressing:

1 Cup Lemon Balm shredded
1/2 cup red wine vinegar
1 cup olive oil
Salt and pepper to taste

Combine all ingredients in bowl. Cover and refrigerate 1 hour.