Monarda citriodora LEMON BEE BALM (25 seeds)

Lemon bee balm or lemon mint is a perennial plant from the Lamiaceae family. It is native to the American continent, specifically the United States and Mexico. It is a fast-growing plant.
Lemon mint features upright, branched, and sturdy stems. They are often slightly fuzzy or hairy to the touch, with a medium-to-dark green coloration. The plant's height ranges between 60 and 90 cm by late summer.

Its foliage consists of lanceolate, alternate leaves with often finely serrated edges. The leaves release a characteristic lemony scent when crushed, which gives them their name "lemon mint."

The flowering of this purple monarda occurs in summer, generally from July to September. It produces spikes of small tubular flowers arranged in dense clusters at the top of the stems. These flowers attract many pollinators, such as bees and butterflies.

Lemon bee balm seeds from Monarda citriodora are small, oval to slightly rounded in shape, and measure approximately 2 to 4 millimeters. Their surface is slightly rough, with a color varying from light brown to dark brown or grayish.

- Uses:

1. The leaves of Monarda citriodora release a pleasant lemon fragrance; all aerial parts (leaves and flowers) are edible. They can be mixed with mint or lemon balm. Its most famous use is in teas and herbal infusions.
2. The flowers of this monarda variety can be eaten in salads or used as garnishes in various dishes; its taste is very pleasant. In traditional medicine, Native Americans consumed it as an infusion of leaves and flowers for its aromatic properties. Infusions of this aromatic herb are recommended for their therapeutic properties.
3. Its dried leaves and flowers retain their fragrance for a long time and can be used in potpourri or dried floral arrangements. Highly decorative, its inflorescences add an exotic touch to flower beds. Easy to grow, it adapts to most soils. It is a valuable ally as it attracts a vast number of insects, including bees.

- Germination and Sowing:

• The most favorable period to sow lemon bee balm is in May.
• Sow the seeds in a 20 cm diameter pot filled with fine potting soil.
• Cover them with 2 to 3 millimeters of soil.
• Water gently by hand using a spray bottle.
• Place the pot in a warm location, such as a greenhouse, at a temperature of at least 20°C.
• Germination will generally begin 2 to 3 weeks after sowing.
• Once the seedlings reach 7 to 8 cm, they should be transplanted into the garden or into larger individual pots.

- Substrate / Soil Type:

Lemon mint grows very easily in well-drained soil rich in organic matter. A mixture of garden soil enriched with compost or manure, along with a bit of sand, ensures good drainage and optimal growth.

- Exposure / Sunlight:

It prefers full sun exposure, which encourages abundant flowering and vigorous growth.

- Temperature / Hardiness:

Native to warm regions, it can tolerate temperatures down to -10°C. It is considered hardy in temperate climates but may require protection or mulching in colder regions during the winter period.

- Watering / Water Needs:

It requires moderate watering, allowing the soil to dry slightly between waterings. During the growth period and at the time of planting, regular watering helps keep the soil moist without waterlogging the roots.

- Reproduction / Propagation:

Monarda citriodora reproduces mainly by seeds or by dividing clumps in the spring or autumn. Propagation by "smothered" cuttings (cloche cuttings) in summer is also possible to obtain identical new plants.

- Pests / Predators:

It can be attacked by aphids, but it generally remains resistant to diseases. Regular monitoring helps prevent infestations and allows for quick intervention if necessary. Use black soap (potassium soap) for an effective organic treatment.