How to Propagate Bee Balm
Bee balm (Monarda) often is found growing wild on prairies, in meadows and along roadsides, but the plant also is welcome in the herb garden where the flowers are attractive to hummingbirds, bees and butterflies. Also known as "bergamot," bee balm can grow as tall as 2 to 4 feet with colorful blooms in shades of pink, lavender, purple, red and white. The minty foliage adds flavor to salads or teas, and the colorful blooms often are used as a garnish. Bee balm is propagated by dividing the plant as soon as you see new growth in early spring. Does this Spark an idea?
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Things You'll Need
- Spade
- Compost or decomposed animal waste
- Shovel or garden fork
- Sharp knife (optional)
- General purpose granular fertilizer
- Mulch
Instructions
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1
Prepare a spot for the divided bee balm ahead of time. Select a sunny spot with well-drained soil. Spade the soil to a depth of 8 to 10 inches. Work in 4 to 6 inches of compost or decomposed animal waste, if your soil is clay-based or doesn't drain well.
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2
Dig a clump of bee balm similar to the size of your shovel or garden fork. Dig deeply to avoid cutting too many roots.
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3
Divide the bee balm into smaller sections, using the tip of your shovel or a sharp knife. Each section should have at least three shoots and should have several roots.
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Plant the divided bee balm in the prepared spot immediately. Dig a hole just large enough to accommodate the plant's root system. Place the plant in the hole and pat soil around the roots. Sprinkle a small handful of general purpose granular fertilizer around the plant.
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Water the plant immediately, saturating the soil. Water the plants once every seven to 10 days. Soak the soil to a depth of 6 to 8 inches so the moisture reaches the plant's roots. The soil should dry out before the next watering.
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Spread 1 to 2 inches of mulch, such as leaves or bark, around the plant to retain soil moisture and cool the roots.
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