How to Care for Bee Balm Flowers

Bee on Bee Balm

Bee balm flowers are known for their showy white, red, or pink blossoms that burst forth from flower or herb gardens in late summer. These flowers are a favorite of gardeners because they are easy to grow, and they are a favorite of bees, hummingbirds and butterflies for their tasty nectar. The leaves of bee balm plants can also be used to brew a tasty tea.

Things You'll Need

• Compost
• Mulch
• Water
• Garden shears

Instructions

1. Make sure that bee balm is planted in a site that receives full sun or light shade. The soil should contain organic materials to help it to drain well.

2. Apply a layer of compost to the soil around the bee balm plants each spring before the growing season begins.

3. Cover the newly laid compost with a two-inch-thick layer of mulch to help the soil retain moisture and to prevent weeds.

4. Monitor the rainfall during the growing season. If less than one inch of rain falls during a one-week period, water the bee balm plants to bring the weekly water amount up to one inch of water.

5. Remove flowers after the blooms fade by clipping them off with a garden shears.

6. Cut back the plants to two inches above the ground after the first hard frost.

7. Watch the bee balm plants for signs that they need to be divided. When you see the plants begin to show signs of deterioration and withering during the growing season, this indicates that the plants need to be divided.

   Using a shovel, split off a section of the main root ball in the spring to divide the plants. Simply drive the sharp edge of the shovel down through the root ball to divide. Replant the newly divided bee balm at least 12 inches away and at a planting depth of 12 inches.

References

• Caring for Bee Balm