LIME BALM SEEDS

Melissa officinalis ssp. altissima

ORGANIC

Rare subspecies of Melissa from the island of Crete. Wonderful lime fragrance and flavor. Very nice on its own or in combination with mint, either in a tea, limeade, or cocktails (herbal mojito!). Seemingly sweeter than the species, and especially appropriate for use with children.

Seeds are best sown indoors, about 8 weeks before the last spring frost: press seeds into moist well-drained soil, just barely covering with additional soil or fine vermiculite, mist; kept warm (70°F) and moist in bright light, seeds should germinate within a few weeks. Germination can be erratic, so be patient. Prick out seedlings to grow on in individual containers or cells in bright light with good air circulation. Lime Balm seedlings are very susceptible to damping off. Harden off well-rooted plants and transplant into the garden in spring or autumn.

Like lemon balm, this species requires full sun and well-drained soil to thrive. The drier the soil, the higher the essential oil content. Do not fertilize and water just until plants are established. Keep trimmed to delay flowering. If not used for tea, cuttings may be sprinkled throughout the Brassica bed to help deter cabbage moths.

Hardy to at least zone 5.

Lime balm, like lemon balm, makes an excellent tea. We prefer to use fresh leaves rather than dried. Even lemon balm will lose it's lemony flavor after several months, but the unique flavor of this species seems particularly fragile. Enjoy in season, in tea, fruit salads (especially watermelon!), spring rolls, salsas and sodas.

Packet contains at least 50 seeds.