Bee balm: when to plant and care
Native; spreads; mildew-resistant cultivars help.
| Botanical name | Monarda didyma |
|---|---|
| Type | perennial |
| USDA zones | 4–9 |
| Sun | full sun to part shade |
| Water | moderate |
| Bloom | summer |
| Mature size | 2–4 ft |
| Planting time | Spring after the last frost, or early fall |
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Gives roots several weeks to settle before heat or freeze.
Example dates
| Place | Dates |
|---|---|
| Austin, TX (78701) | spring: Mar 10–Apr 21; fall: Sep 22–Oct 13 |
| Atlanta, GA (30303) | spring: Mar 24–May 5; fall: Sep 13–Oct 4 |
| St. Louis, MO (63101) | spring: Apr 1–May 13; fall: Sep 9–30 |
| Chicago, IL (60614) | spring: Apr 10–May 22; fall: Sep 10–Oct 1 |
| Denver, CO (80202) | spring: Apr 30–Jun 11; fall: Aug 17–Sep 7 |
| Seattle, WA (98101) | spring: Mar 13–Apr 24; fall: Sep 22–Oct 13 |
Every ZIP page has its own dates. Find your ZIP.
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Sources
Summarized in our own words from public extension publications.
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