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Pruning guide · Herbaceous plant
Lemon balm: when and how to prune
Melissa officinalis
Lemon balm is best pruned in March and July.
| Pruning months | March and July |
|---|---|
| Flowering | June–September |
| Native to Belgium | No, naturalised |
Lemon balm: when to prune it?
In July, after the first flowering, cut back part of the plant; in March, the old stems.
Lemon balm: how to prune it?
- After the first flowering cut half the stems back to 10–15 cm; leave the rest to flower for the bees.
- This gives fresh leaves for the kitchen and limits self-seeding.
- Leave the last stems standing in autumn: insects overwinter in and among them.
- In March cut the old stems back to just above the new shoots at the base.
How much to cut, and how often?
- There are 2 pruning periods a year: March and July. You don’t have to prune in every one.
What does it mean for wildlife?
- Don’t cut more than you need to: what stays standing gives insects and birds food and shelter.
Caution: Do not cut everything at once in full flower: the bees depend on it. Prune in stages.
Nearby: related pruning guides
Plant profile: Lemon balm · Pruning calendar and basic rules
This guide is compiled from the Bladwijzer plant profile and pruning calendar.