Lemon balm, or Melissa officinalis, is a fragrant perennial herb. This member of the mint family is recognized for its rapid growth rate, often spreading aggressively through rhizomes and self-seeding. Transplanting becomes necessary when its spreading nature needs to be controlled or when a gardener wishes to relocate it. Moving the plant requires careful planning to minimize stress and ensure it establishes quickly in its new environment.
Preparing for the Transplant: Timing and Location
The most favorable times to move lemon balm are during the cooler periods of the year, specifically early spring or fall after the summer heat subsides. Transplanting during these seasons allows the root system to recover and establish itself before facing extreme temperatures. Moving the plant when it is dormant or just beginning new growth significantly reduces the risk of transplant shock.
Selecting an appropriate new location is important to manage this vigorous plant. Lemon balm thrives in well-draining soil that is moderately rich in organic matter, though it tolerates various soil types, and performs well in full sun to partial shade. The chosen site should be large enough to contain the plant’s mature size or utilize a physical barrier, such as a large container sunk into the ground, to prevent unwanted spread.
Step-by-Step Guide to the Moving Process
Begin the moving process by thoroughly hydrating the lemon balm several hours before digging, ensuring the soil holds together better. While the plant is soaking, prepare the new planting site by digging a hole that is twice as wide as the root ball and slightly shallower. This allows the roots to spread easily into the loosened soil and prevents the plant from settling too deeply.
Use a sharp spade to carefully dig around the perimeter of the existing plant, cutting straight down to sever outward roots. Aim to extract a generous root ball, typically about 8 to 12 inches in diameter, keeping as much of the root system intact as possible. Gently lift the entire root ball and move it to the prepared hole, using burlap or a bucket to help stabilize the soil and roots during transportation.
Before placing the plant, consider pruning back up to one-third of the above-ground foliage to reduce the plant’s immediate demand for moisture. This reduces transpiration, allowing the damaged root system to focus its energy on re-establishing itself. Set the plant into the new hole so the top of the root ball is level with or slightly above the surrounding soil grade.
Backfill the hole with the excavated soil, gently tamping it down around the root ball to eliminate large air pockets that can dry out the fine feeder roots. Make sure to avoid covering the crown of the plant with new soil, as burying the crown can lead to stem rot and inhibit new growth. Once the hole is completely filled, create a small, shallow basin around the base of the plant to help capture water during the initial irrigation.
Post-Transplant Care and Monitoring
Immediately after transplanting, administer a deep watering to settle the soil and eliminate any remaining air pockets around the roots. This initial soaking helps initiate the recovery process by providing necessary hydration to the stressed plant tissues. The goal is to saturate the entire root zone.
Maintain consistent soil moisture for the first two to four weeks following the move. The soil should feel evenly damp, but never waterlogged, as excessive saturation can lead to root rot. During periods of harsh sunlight or wind, provide temporary shade or shelter to prevent the leaves from drying out faster than the damaged roots can absorb water.
Monitor the plant closely for signs of transplant shock, which often manifests as wilting or drooping foliage. While some initial wilting is normal, persistent drooping or yellowing leaves may indicate the need for more careful watering or protection. New, upright growth suggests that the lemon balm has successfully established itself and is recovering.