Citronella Balm Seeds

You should grow citronella balm for its ability to naturally repel mosquitoes and other insects, its pleasant citrus-mint scent and flavor, its ornamental value as a pollinator-friendly garden plant, and its potential culinary and medicinal uses, such as in teas or skin-soothing applications.

Useful gardening information

Barely cover the tiny seeds. Use a sterilized potting soil, and keep watering to an absolute minimum , just enough to keep the medium from drying out. Germination takes 10-14 days. Once seedlings are large enough to handle, transplant at a spacing of 18?into the garden or 3 seedlings per 6" pot if grown inside or as a pation plant. Germination in 10-14 days

IP184 Citronella Balm ( Melissa officinalis Citronella )

We love this herb! Simply crush a handful of the leaves for a burst of citronella fragrance and rub on exposed skin to deter pesky mosquitoes and gnats.

Citronella Balm is a fragrant lemon balm variety valued for its fresh, citrusy scent and attractive green foliage. Its bright lemon-citronella aroma makes it a pleasant herb for patios, porches, herb gardens, and containers near outdoor sitting areas.

This variety is often grown around patios and garden seating areas because the crushed leaves release a strong lemony fragrance that may help discourage gnats and mosquitoes from lingering nearby. For best effect, gently brush or crush a few leaves to release the aromatic oils, or place containers close to walkways, porches, decks, and outdoor tables.

Citronella Balm is also useful as a culinary and household herb. The fresh leaves can be used sparingly in teas, fruit drinks, salads, herb butters, and desserts where a mild lemon flavor is desired. Leaves may also be dried for potpourri, sachets, or fragrant herbal blends.

Growing Information

Citronella Balm grows well in containers, raised beds, and herb gardens. Plants prefer full sun to partial shade and moist, well-drained soil. In hot summer areas, light afternoon shade can help keep the foliage tender and attractive. Trim regularly to encourage bushy growth and to harvest fresh leaves.

This herb is a hardy perennial in many climates and may return year after year. Like other lemon balms, it can spread if allowed to flower and seed freely, so container growing is an excellent choice for keeping plants neat and easy to manage.

Germination

Sow seeds on the surface of a fine seed-starting mix and press them gently into the soil. Cover very lightly, as the seeds need some light to germinate. Keep the soil evenly moist but not soggy. Germination usually occurs in 10 to 21 days at warm room temperatures.

Once seedlings are large enough to handle, transplant them into individual pots or into the garden after danger of frost has passed. Space plants about 12 to 18 inches apart, or grow one plant in a medium to large container.

With its useful fragrance, attractive foliage, and easy container habit, Citronella Balm is a wonderful addition to herb gardens, patio planters, and outdoor living spaces.

All seed packets listed on this page are in stock and ready to ship.