Bee Balm (AKA Wild Bergamot) Monarda spp.

Easy to moderate 

Starting indoors

Needs cold stratification to germinate. Place seeds in fridge in moist soil for about a month. Amend soil with compost, whether in a garden or a container. Gently sow seeds on top of soil being sure not to cover them.

Direct sowing in garden

For cold stratification, sow seeds outdoors in the fall. Amend soil with compost once workable. Gently sow seeds on top of soil being sure not to cover them.

Easy

Remove seed heads from plant. Let dry for about a week. Store in a envelope or paper bag in a cool, dry place.

🏠 Indoors
Make sure the pot is crack proof & has good drainage. A window ledge or outdoor patio is the best due to light requirements

☀️ Full 

🌤️ Partial sun 

• Temps: 🌡️ Hardy plants that can grow in cold & hot weather 

• Hardiness Zones: 🗺️ 3 to 9 (2023 USDA Plant Hardiness Zone Map - Michigan)

• Humidity: 🌫️ Needs good airflow. Doesn't tolerate high humidity, it increases the chance of powdery mildew

• Water Conditions: 💧 Moderate schedule once the soil just begins to feel dry, but be careful not to overwater

• pH: 🧪 Acidic to neutral

• Soil conditions: 🌱 Moist, well-draining soil. Benefit from organic matter 

Fall or spring

Fast spreader; somewhat deer resistant

Thrives best in full sun

If planted in the fall, trim bee balm down to a couple inches, let's the plant focus on root development