Herbs

Lemon Balm

Melissa officinalis

Lemon balm is a perennial herb in the mint family, known for its lemon-scented leaves. It is commonly used in herbal teas, culinary dishes, and traditional medicine for its calming effects. The plant can grow up to 1 meter tall and produces small white or yellow flowers that attract pollinators.

Calculate System for Lemon Balm

400.00–600.00mm

Water Need

120 days

Season

30.00–60.00cm

Root Depth

25,000 kg/ha

Yield

20,000

Plants/ha

Growth Stages

Season: Mar – Aug (120 days)

Initial

Kc 0.400

30 days

Development

Kc 0.700

40 days

Mid-Season

Kc 1.000

60 days

Late

Kc 0.800

30 days

Lemon balm prefers well-drained soils and can be grown in pots or garden beds. It can be propagated by seeds, cuttings, or division. Regular harvesting encourages bushier growth.

Water Requirements

Season Total: 400.00–600.00 mm

Water Stress Sensitivity: High

Salt Tolerance: Moderate

Water Productivity: 15.500 kg/m³

Recommended Methods

Drip Irrigation90.00%Fixed Sprinkler70.00%

Soil Compatibility

Optimal pH range: 6.0 – 7.5

Sandy Loam

AWC100.00mm/m

Drainagegood

Drainage: Well-drained soils preferred

Organic Matter: 2.00%

Incorporating organic matter can improve soil structure and fertility. Regular soil testing is recommended to maintain optimal pH levels.

Climate Compatibility

Temperature range: 15.0°C – 30.0°C

Temperate Continental

ETo: 1.00–6.00 mm/day

Temp: -20.0°C – 30.0°C

Frost: high

Mediterranean

ETo: 3.00–7.00 mm/day

Temp: 5.0°C – 35.0°C

Frost: low

Frost Tolerance: Low frost tolerance

Heat Tolerance: Moderate heat tolerance

In cooler climates, consider using row covers to protect young plants from frost. In hotter areas, provide partial shade during peak summer.

Planting Layout

100.00cm

Row Spacing

50.00cm

Plant Spacing

20,000

Plants per ha

Nutrient Requirements (kg/ha)

Nitrogen (N)150 kg/ha

Phosphorus (P)60 kg/ha

Potassium (K)180 kg/ha

Calcium (Ca) kg/ha

Magnesium (Mg) kg/ha

Sulfur (S) kg/ha

Schedule: Apply nitrogen in 3 splits during growing season

Organic Matter: 2-3% organic matter recommended

Yield Information

25,000

kg/ha

2.500

kg/plant

0.450

Harvest Index

Quality Factors: Size, color, sugar content

Design Your Lemon Balm Irrigation System

Use our free calculators to plan water requirements, spacing, and system costs for your Lemon Balm field.

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Related Guides

Introduction to Growing and Irrigating Lemon Balm

Lemon Balm, also known as Melissa officinalis, is a perennial herb that is widely cultivated for its aromatic leaves and medicinal properties. It belongs to the mint family and is known for its lemony scent and flavor. Lemon Balm is a great choice for growers looking to cultivate a profitable crop due to its high…

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