How to Control Lemon Balm and Keep It From Taking Over

Lemon balm, Melissa officinalis, is one of my favorite aromatic garden herbs because it’s so simple to grow – and it’s available almost year round here in Southern California.

We link to vendors to help you find relevant products. If you buy from one of our links, we may earn a commission.

If you’re thinking of adding lemon balm to your garden, it’s essential to know that, like mint, this herb can spread rapidly.

With a few simple steps, you can keep it under control and enjoy its delightful fragrance without it taking over your space.

I’ll share some tips on avoiding a lemon balm takeover and managing it if it gets a little too enthusiastic in its growth.

By taking preventative measures, you won’t have to tackle an overgrowth of lemon balm in the future.

This herb spreads through seed and runners. A runner, in botany, is more formally known as a stolon.

The stolon is a horizontally creeping stem that extends from the main plant and develops roots at specific points that can grow into new plants.

These new plants are often called “daughter plants,” and they grow from what some call the “mother plant.”

I appreciate the opportunistic behavior of this mint relative and will make the most out of its abundance when met with the opportunity.

There are four simple methods that I’ve found to be most supportive in controlling M. officinalis. Check them out below.

You can grow your lemon balm in a spacious container to prevent it from spreading through runners.

However, remember that the plant can still self-seed and spread to other planters or bare soil.

I like these Gardener’s Best® Universal Grow Bags. They’re affordable and come in various vibrant