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Bee Balm - Eastern
Seed Packet

Bee Balm - Eastern

Monarda bradburiana
Extend the blooming season of bee balms by growing this pollinator-friendly native, for it blooms in May, before the summer flush of other species. Lavender pink whorled flowers are couched in purple-violet bracts; its grey-green foliage redolent of oregano with a splash of mint.
SKU #S1968
$4.00
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Details
Approximate Seeds Per Packet
150
Lifecycle
Perennial
Perennial Hardiness Zone
5,
6,
7,
8
Mature Size
1-2' h x 1-2' w
Sun
Full sun to partial shade
Soil
Regular, well-drained
Season
Spring to summer
Color
Lavender to pink crown-like flowers with purple spotting
Features
Scented Leaves
Great Cut Flower
Deer Resistant
Heat or Drought Tolerant
Attracts Butterflies
Attracts Bees
Attracts Hummingbirds
Attracts Beneficial Insects
SOWING INSTRUCTIONS
Depth:
Surface or barely cover.
Sprout Time:
7-14 days
Starting Indoors:
A moist stratification period of 30 days in the refrigerator may be beneficial but is not required for germination. Sow indoors 6-8 weeks before last frost Keep at 60-70°F, then after transplant, grow on cooler 55-60°F until setting outdoors.
Starting Outdoors:
Direct sow outdoors in spring or early fall.
WHEN TO SET OUTSIDE
This late spring blooming perennial can be placed in the ground in early spring in northern areas or early fall.
PLACEMENT & CULTIVATION
Attractive to hummingbirds, bees, and butterflies but not deer, early-blooming Eastern bee balm edges wild gardens and old-fashioned cottage and rock gardens in crowns of soft pink. Add a couple of inches of mulch for weed control and moisture retention when planting. Bee balm can spread quickly underground via rhizomes, horizontal underground stems that develop roots and new shoots. Divide in spring every few years or when the center dies out.
Final Spacing:
2'
Water Requirements:
Medium Water Use
Watering Details:
Tolerates some drought but will be happier with regular watering; about 1" per week.
Soil pH:
Acidic to neutral
Fertilizer:
Each spring, apply about 1/2-1" of compost.
Diseases & Pests:
Bee balm is susceptible to mildew, but this species is resistant. Prevent disease by thinning and allowing for good air circulation around the remaining stems. Keeping soil evenly moist will also help to prevent this problem.
When to Cut for Bouquets:
Harvest when the flowers are nearly open.
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