Lemon Mint
Although the plant does not belong to the mint family, it has a characteristic herbal aroma with hints of citrus. This made lemon mint famous in flower and herb gardens worldwide, and it is now used as a seasoning for meat dishes and an additive to aromatic tea. In addition, the leaves of this plant contain the essential oil citronellol, which repels harmful insects, and its flowers are very fond of butterflies, hummingbirds, and bees. The genus Monarda is namеd after the Spanish botanist Nicolás Bautista Monardes, whо studied hеrbal and medicinal plants from North America in the 16th century. From Latin, the species name "citriodora" means "having a citrus aroma."
How to Grow Lemon Mint from seeds:
• Sowing: Plant directly on the soil's surface in early spring so the seeds receive light. Shoots appear within 10-20 days at a temperature of 60 to 70 degrees F. and adequately moistened soil. When the seedlings are established, thin them out or transplant them to a greater distance. When planting indoors, sow seeds 6-8 weеks before the last frоst and transplant them оutdoors.
• Growing of Lemon Mint: Maintain moderate moisture levels until seedlings are established, but avoid overwatering. Mature plants tolerate drought well, but in the sultry heat, it is still recommended to water these fragrant plants. Lemon mint is a tasty treat for honey bees and hummingbirds.
• How and When to Harvest lemon Mint: Harvest stems with flowers that are about to open. Clean the foliage stem, so it does not rot in the water, and enjoy a beautiful bouquet. Also, these flowers are an excellent choice for dry flower arrangements.
• Lemon Mint Seed Preservation: Watch the peduncle; as soon as it dries overnight and turns brown, cut them off and dry. Then thresh the seed heads by collecting the seeds in a container. Repeat the process daily until all seeds are ripe. Store seeds in a cool, dry place.
FAST FACTS:
- Common Names: Lemon Bergamot, Lemon Beebalm, Lemon Mint, Prairie Bergamot, Wild Bergamot, Lemon Balm, Lemon Horsemint, Plains Horsemint, Lemon Bee Balm, Lemon Bergamot, Purple Horse Mint
- Latin Name: Monarda citriodora
- Species Origin: US Native Wildflower
- Type: Native Wildflowers
- Life Cycle: Annual
- USDA Zonеs: 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12
- US Regions: California, Mountain, Arid/Desert, Plains/Texas, Midwest, Northern, Northeast, Southeast
- Seeds per Ounce: 75,000
- Stratification: No Stratification
- Germination Ease: No Stratification
- Sunlight: Full Sun
- Height: 20 Inches
- Color: White, Pink
- Bloom Season: Blooms Late Spring, Blooms Early Summer
- Uses: Attracts Pollinators, Attracts Honeybees, Attracts Butterflies, Hummingbirds, Aromatic, Cut Flowers, Deer Resistant