Bergamot | Bee Balm
Spacing 18-24”
Height: 2-4’”
Post Germination Water Needs: Average
Light: Full Sun to Partial Shade
Monarda fistulosa
Wild bergamot, also known as bee balm, is a native perennial wildflower prized for its clusters of fragrant, lavender-pink blooms. A member of the mint family, it’s known for attracting pollinators like bees, butterflies, and hummingbirds. Its aromatic leaves can be used to make herbal teas, and it thrives in meadow or prairie-style plantings.
Planting and Care
Prefers well-draining, moderately fertile soil but adapts to various soil types, including clay and sandy soils. Ideal pH: 6.0–7.0. Sow seeds outdoors in late fall or early spring. Alternatively, start seeds indoors 6–8 weeks before the last frost. Lightly press seeds into the soil surface without covering, as they need light to germinate. Germination takes 10–20 days. Keep soil consistently moist during establishment. Once established, wild bergamot is drought-tolerant but performs best with moderate watering.
Harvest
Harvest stems when blooms are fully open for the best vase life. Wild bergamot lasts 5–7 days in water.
Maintainance
Deadhead spent blooms to extend flowering. Cut plants back to the ground in late fall or early spring to encourage fresh growth. Divide clumps every 3–4 years in spring or fall to prevent overcrowding and maintain plant vigor.
Companion Plants
Pairs well with echinacea, black-eyed Susans, and milkweed in pollinator gardens.
Disclaimer: Content is a collection of personal experience, seed source information, as well as chatGPT. The goal here is for quick reference so please take with a grain of salt.