How to Grow Bee Balm
The hardy perennial bee balm (Monarda) belongs to the mint family and grows in zones 4 to 9. Different varieties produce red, lavender, white, pink and purple flowers. Monarda didyma produces red flowers that attract humming birds and bumble bees. The herb grows three to four feet.
- Difficulty:
- Easy
Instructions
Things You'll Need
- Potted plants
- Garden shovel
- Mulch
- Water hose
- Fertilizer 10-10-10
- Knife
- Seed packet
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Plant Potted Bee Balm
-
1
Purchase potted plants from a nursery or garden center.
-
2
Locate an area with partial shade to full sun and good air circulation.
-
3
Dig a hole in well-drained rich organic soil with a garden shovel deep enough for the root ball. For several plants, allow at least 10 inches of spacing.
-
4
Mulch around the plants for dry climate areas to retain moisture.
-
5
Water enough to keep the soil moist, but don't over water. Check the ground for watering during extended dry periods.
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6
Fertilize in early spring by sprinkling a small amount of a 10-10-10 garden fertilizer. With good organic soil, eliminate fertilizing.
Propagate Bee Balm
-
1
Divide every two to three years in early spring when the plants first emerge. Bee balm spreads through its underground stems, which makes the plant invasive.
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2
Dig up the plants and divide the clump with a knife. Leave two to three shoots for each section. This keeps the Monarda healthy because the clumps die in the center after several years.
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3
Replant the new shoots in a different area to grow more bee balms.
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4
Scatter packet seeds on the ground's surface according to seed packet directions and allow two weeks for germination in 60 degree or above temperatures.
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1
Tips & Warnings
Cut the plant down an inch above the ground after the leaves turn yellow.
Make tea from the yellow leaves, by first drying three days in the shade then place in a tea strainer and boil.
Avoid over watering and too much shade to eliminate the chance of developing powdery mildew.
